Art, music and other special classes will be returning to many of Broward’s smaller schools this upcoming school year, Superintendent Howard Hepburn announced Tuesday.
Hepburn told the School Board that all 128 district-run elementary schools will get a minimum of three “specials,” which are typically non-core classes such as art, music and physical education. In the past, the district’s smallest schools have only gotten two. That meant if the schools offered P.E., as most schools do, they could also offer art or music, but not both.
About a quarter of elementary schools offered no music classes last school year, while half lack art, district data shows. Twelve schools offer neither, creating arts deserts at schools such as Collins Elementary in Dania Beach, Coral Springs Elementary, Larkdale Elementary in Lauderhill and Dolphin Bay Elementary in Miramar.
Board members said that’s a problem and likely hurt enrollment, as parents chose schools with more offerings and asked Hepburn to find money in the budget to offer these classes.
“There was a specific call to action about ensuring every elementary school offered a minimum of three special area classes,” Hepburn told the board. “We took that call to action because we are a student-first organization. I’m pleased to say that mission was accepted and that mission was accomplished.”
The news excited School Board members, who urged district staff to let parents know as soon as possible.
“We give you a lot of heartache, but everyone needs their sunshine once in a while, and I think this is an amazing thing to hear this morning,” Board member Rebecca Thompson said.
This is a developing story. Check back for more information.