Questions: Why are the arts being reduced or eliminated from the curriculum in favor of basic skills instruction? The arts play a minor role in the development of educated people. The arts are considered an "endangered species" in schools. The arts are less relevant than other subjects. High-stakes assessments and budgets dictate the curriculum.

The answer is: High-stakes assessments and budgets dictate the curriculum.

Explanation for each option:

1. The arts play a minor role in the development of educated people.

   • This statement is incorrect. Numerous studies and educational theories emphasize the significant role that the arts play in the holistic development of individuals. The arts enhance creativity, critical thinking, and emotional expression, which are essential components of a well-rounded education.

2. The arts are considered an "endangered species" in schools.

   • While this statement may reflect the current situation in many schools, it is more of a consequence rather than a reason. The arts are often labeled as "endangered" because they are being reduced or eliminated, but this does not explain why this reduction is happening.

3. The arts are less relevant than other subjects.

   • This statement is subjective and not universally accepted. The relevance of the arts compared to other subjects is a matter of perspective. Many educators and experts argue that the arts are equally important as they contribute to the development of various skills and cultural awareness.

4. High-stakes assessments and budgets dictate the curriculum.

   • This is the correct answer. The increasing emphasis on high-stakes assessments in subjects like math and reading, combined with budget constraints, often leads schools to prioritize these areas over the arts. Schools are under pressure to perform well in standardized tests, which typically do not include arts subjects, leading to a reduction or elimination of arts programs to allocate more resources to tested subjects.