A case study: a viable arts program at one elementary school in California

This qualitative study used a case study approach to examine the structure, leadership and funding of arts programs that enable school leaders to maintain viable arts programs despite accountability demands and fiscal constraints. The purpose of this study was to determine key factors in sustaining arts programs in a school that has successfully implemented arts education programs and has high student achievement. The subject of this case study was an elementary charter school in Central, Los Angeles that has successfully demonstrated student achievement as measured by the Academic Performance Index and had arts in education present. Findings from the study identified leadership as a critical component in preserving a viable arts program. The founder’s vision of a model school with a focus on dance was a shared vision amongst all stakeholders, or in other words demonstrated a school‐wide commitment to the arts. School leadership provided the means for all stakeholders (teachers, students, parents) at XYZ to recognize the significance of and support the arts programs. Findings also revealed how leadership carefully considered ways to effectively use instructional time and resources to support the arts programs. The observations and conclusions made through this qualitative case study may be used as an impetus to reintroduce the arts in other schools.