Creative Copy (CC) is a service offered by the Wisconsin Arts Board (WAB). Through CC, WAB distributes resource guides to artists and arts organizations via an e-newsletter, and maintains these guides in an online archive. If you think we missed something, or if you have a question, email vivienne.timchenko@wisconsin.gov. If you haven't already, make sure to join our email list to receive CC and other WAB resources!
The photo above features kids and teachers engaging in an art making activity with yarn, paper, glue, and other materials on a long bright green table. This was one of the many arts activity events at the 2025 State Youth Art Month (YAM) Exhibit organized by the Wisconsin Art Education Association. YAM is celebrated every March, and in addition to National Arts in Education week, is a powerful time to raise the importance of arts education in targeted work, actions, and conversations.
National Arts in Education Week
National Arts in Education Week is celebrated each year from the second Sunday in September through the following Saturday. In 2026, National Arts in Education Week takes place from September 13 –19.
Arts education benefits students in more ways than one. We know this not just through anecdotal experiences, but also from truths well proven by an ocean of quality research. Access to quality arts education is central to coping with the mental health and loneliness concerns that we are all currently facing. Arts education also provides today's youth with the social emotional learning and creativity that is being sought out by employers in all industries (Americans for the Arts).
While 81% of all schools reported sufficient student interest in arts education, just 55% had adequate funding, facilities, and materials (2024 National for the Arts School Pulse Panel Survey). We have an Arts. Education. Youth Development resource page, and below have listed a few resources to help folks engage during National Arts in Education Week. Below, we've also called out upcoming, relevant events (like the Wisconsin Creativity Summit) and conferences for arts educators.
Arts Education Drives Student Success Across Every Measure
Academic Achievement: Higher test scores and graduation rates
Workforce Readiness: Building the creativity and collaboration skills that 72% of business leaders say are essential
Student Wellness: Providing emotional outlets and supportive communities
Equity: Ensuring all students can access transformative learning experiences
Learn more on Americans for the Arts' National Arts in Education Week page!
"Research suggests that integration of arts in educational curriculums naturally leads students to interact with academic content in ways that promote long-term retention, particularly those who struggle with achieving success in conventional or non-arts integrated teaching approaches (Hardiman et al.)"
2026 Wisconsin Creativity Summit
The 2026 Wisconsin Creativity Summit brought educators and creative leaders together for an inspiring conversation about the essential role of creativity and the arts in education and in preparing young people for an increasingly complex future. Dr. Peter Gamwell and I had the honor of interviewing arts education advocate and researcher Bob Morrison, exploring the enduring role of the arts in education, the need to rethink how we define and value learning, and how each of us can use our spheres of influence to help create meaningful change. The evening also honored the life and legacy of Sir Ken Robinson, whose enduring message about protecting and nurturing the creative capacities of every young person continues to challenge and inspire educators around the world. We invite you to watch the recording and join the conversation about creating an education system that recognizes and cultivates the creativity within every learner.
Watch the recording!
Conferences for Arts Educators
(in chronological order)
Annual Convening
Arts Education Partnership
September 1 – 4 | Jacksonville, FL
Alliance for Wisconsin Theatre Education Conference
Alliance for Wisconsin Theatre Education
September 18 | Kenosha, WI
Performing Arts Conference
National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)
September 21 - 23 | Oak Brook, IL
Resources from the Wisconsin Partners for Arts Education
The Wisconsin Art Education Association (WAEA)
The Wisconsin Art Education Association (WAEA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in visual art and design education for all students across Wisconsin. Founded in 1994, it serves as a professional association for art educators, offering resources, advocacy, and community-building opportunities.
Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA)
Founded in 1932, Wisconsin School Music Association (WSMA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, statewide association serving more than 3,500 music teachers and school administrators in the education of 100,000+ students who annually participate in the organization’s activities through their school’s membership. WSMA is a leader in providing programs and services that challenge youth to achieve excellence through music.
Wisconsin Music Educators Association (WMEA)
WMEA’s mission is to represent the shared interests and needs of Wisconsin music educators, foster their professional growth, and advocate for equitable access to high-quality music education for all students in a safe, inclusive environment. It supports educators, administrators, collegiate students, and retired professionals, as well as Tri‑M members (middle/high school students).
Alliance for Wisconsin Theatre Education (AWTE)
The Alliance for Wisconsin Theatre Education (AWTE) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing theatre education in Wisconsin through advocacy, professional development, and community building.
International Council for Media Literacy
The International Council for Media Literacy is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing media literacy as essential for our global society.
Wisconsin Interscholastic Speech & Dramatic Arts Association (WISDAA)
Wisconsin Interscholastic Speech & Dramatic Arts Association (WISDAA) provides an inclusive platform that welcomes all middle and high school students to enhance and refine communication skills, to foster creativity, and to share perspectives.
Wisconsin Dance Council
The Wisconsin Dance Council (WDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting dance as a fine art and as a means of cultural expression throughout Wisconsin.
The Department of Public Instruction's Arts and Creativity page is a treasure trove of information and has free resources like the Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project, which contains music, lesson plans, and materials created by Wisconsin artists and educators for Wisconsin schools, communities, and libraries.
Panelist Opportunity for Arts Educators
We are always looking for panelists who are willing to commit their time and expertise to our grant review process, especially those with a background in K-12 arts education. For more information, and to apply to be a panelist, submit an interest form.