The 89th Texas Legislative Session just wrapped after two special sessions, and education spending was front and center. Despite a $24 billion surplus, fine arts education was left out—again.
Parents for Arts Education joined with statewide partners to educate our legislators on the need for a Fine Arts Allotment, similar to Career & Technology Education funding, to cover the real costs of supplies and specialized teachers. Advocates showed up with student performances and testimony throughout the session, and the allotment even passed in the House version of HB2—but it was stripped before reaching the Senate. For the second session in a row, it didn’t cross the finish line.
Here’s what we learned—and where we go next:
1. Fine Arts Must Move from “Nice to Have” to “Essential”
As long as arts are framed as enrichment, they’ll be first on the chopping block. We must shift the narrative: creativity, collaboration, communication, grit, and innovation are workforce skills that AI can’t replace. Texas graduates will need them more than ever and the best place to hone these skills is in fine arts courses.
Our founder, Trina Martin, will share this message in her TEDx Round Rock talk this November: “AI Can’t Replace This: Why Arts Education Matters.” Please watch and share—it’s a tool to spread this message beyond the arts community.
2. Our Coalition Must Grow
Lawmakers need to hear from parents, students, and alumni—not just teachers and professionals. PAE and SAE are building this coordinated voice, but we need more stories. Share your experience at https://parentsforartseducation.org/how-can-you-help/ and amplify our reach by liking, sharing, and following us on social media. Numbers matter.
3. We Can’t Do This Alone
This fight is bigger than one group. Teachers, artists, industry leaders, parents, students, alumni, and communities must stand together. We need to show that Texans from every career path value arts education—not just those who chose careers in the arts. Partnerships across education and business will be key.
We have about 16 months before the next legislative session. In that time, Parents for Arts Education and Students for Arts Education will focus on growing a grassroots movement—but we need you.
Join us today at www.paetx.org and follow us on all our socials to help secure the future of fine arts education for every child.