Statement of Purpose and Method of Study: This non-experimental descriptive study compared the behavior and academic performance of students in grades sixth, seventh, and eighth enrolled at Urban Academy. This study compared the academic performance and behavior of students who were randomly assigned to a visual arts course with the academic performance and behavior of students not enrolled in visual arts (control group). Findings and Conclusions: Students in this research are all from a lower socioeconomic background. They are all placed at the alternative school until their expulsion from their traditional school is complete. Significant growth has been shown by each student while being enrolled in some type of exploratory class (visual arts or physical education). In this investigation to determine whether participation in art courses improves student achievement and behavior, the researcher used archival data from the behavior specialist to identify students' behavior and academic performance growth. Based on current findings, visual arts education does appear to have an influence on student achievement and behaviors. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]