Schools may choose to develop a specialization incorporating a sequence of courses in the arts. The High School Arts Specialization Curriculum Document was created as an instructional tool to assist schools and teachers with the development and sequencing and pacing of instruction for students who are specializing in music. It reflects the Kentucky Core Academic Standards , as well as the high school graduation requirements as identified in Section 2, 7 of  704 KAR 3:305. Minimum requirements for high school graduation:

“ History and appreciation of visual and performing arts (or another arts course which incorporates this content) - one (1) credit to include the content strands of arts, dance, music, theatre, and visual arts, or a standards-based specialized arts course based on the student’s individual learning plan.”

This curriculum document is organized by the five “Big Ideas” as used in the Arts and Humanities Program of Studies and Core Content for Assessment. Resources with Examples, Topics and Student Activities for Music, Visual Art, Dance and Drama are included. This document can be used as a resource to assist teachers in planning instruction. The content is intended to be integrated into the performance class over a 3- year period.

You will also find a chart that provides a suggested amount of instructional time needed to cover specific topics. The suggested instructional time is based on 90, 70 and 50 minute class periods.
Please note: this document could also be useful to schools that are not doing the arts specialization but would like to embed the material into their performing arts classes in order to satisfy students' arts and humanities requirements.

This document is a living and breathing document. Therefore, your input and suggestions are needed and wanted. Please send comments and suggestions to Pam Fleitz, pam.fleitz@jefferson.kyschools.us.