More students than ever attain Arizona Seal of Arts Proficiency

Horne touts work of schools to promote fine arts

PHOENIX – State schools superintendent Tom Horne says he is very pleased that nearly 2,400 Arizona public school students received the Seal of Arts proficiency during the 2024-25 school year, the highest amount ever awarded.

The Dysart Unified School District had the highest number of recipients with 249 students.

Horne stated, “I am a passionate supporter of the arts. Not only do disciplines such as music, theatre, art and dance have intrinsic value, but studies have proven that students who pursue the arts often do better academically. There is tremendous value in arts education, and I am extremely pleased to see the highest number of students in the history of this program receiving the Seal of Arts Proficiency. I also offer my congratulations to the Dysart district and its leadership for having the most students receiving this recognition.”

The program began in 2019 with the goals of celebrating students who demonstrate elevated levels of proficiency in arts standards; identify pathways of artistic literacy that cultivate life skills; prepare students for college and career readiness and promote increased access to arts education statewide.

The arts and culture jobs sector in Arizona represents nearly 80,000 jobs. The Seal of Proficiency provides a pathway to prepare students with the skills needed to succeed in creative industries and flourish in their personal and professional lives.

2,366 students achieved a Seal. The total number of Seals is 2,400 since some students received more than one.