Support for arts education is a favorite issue in the education media. Policymakers of all stripes routinely declare their devotion to the arts and its importance in students' lives. They often cite findings that students who have arts education outperform their peers on most indicators of academic achievement. Many will relate their own experiences in a music or art class and fondly recall a favorite arts teacher who encouraged them. Yet when it comes to making tough decisions regarding resources, the arts are frequently sacrificed. Especially in the nation's poorest schools, dance, theatre, visual arts, and music may be viewed as enrichment, rather than core academic disciplines. Although advocating for arts education in relation to other core content areas is valid and supported with research, the position of the arts in schools must change. To meet the needs of students in the 21st century, schools must upgrade the position of the arts and give students the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in college, in careers, and in life. A comprehensive arts program is uniquely suited to this important task.