I recently had a conversation with a North Carolina A+ teacher about arts integration, and the conversation got me thinking. We were discussing what comes next after the arts are integrated in schools, and we started talking about what that would look like in a school.

One idea we discussed was that instead of having the traditional subjects of Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Art, PE, Music, etc., schools might one day get rid of those classifications. Instead, schools would focus on enduring themes/Big Ideas. Classes would be focused around one of those enduring themes and all of the relevant material from ANY category would be pulled in. Students wouldn't go to Math and Science and Music class. Instead they would go to Identity, Misconception & Communication classes.

They would still learn all of the same concepts and subject matter just in a really different way. I am really interested in hearing what others think. First off, is there anyone out there in the art education or education world in general who has written about this concept. Also, would America ever be ready for this? Would it work? Is it even a good idea? Can't wait to hear everyone's thoughts

Anne Huyck