Restricted-Use Data Files and Documentation (FRSS 101): Secondary School Arts Education Survey

This file contains data from a fast-response survey titled "Secondary School Arts Education Survey: Fall 2009." This survey provides national estimates on student access to arts education and the resources available for such instruction in public secondary schools during fall 2009. This is one of a set of seven surveys that collected data on arts education during the 2009–10 school year. In addition to this survey, the set includes a survey of elementary school principals, three elementary teacher-level surveys, and two secondary teacher-level surveys. NCES released the results of this set of surveys in the First Look report “A Snapshot of Arts Education in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools: 2009–10” (NCES 2011-078). A second report, planned for early 2012, will present findings on a broader set of indicators. NCES is releasing separate data files for each of the seven surveys.

Questionnaires and cover letters for the study were mailed to the principal of each sampled secondary school in September 2009. The letter introduced the study and requested that the questionnaire be completed by the school principal. Respondents were offered the option of completing the survey via the web or by mail. Telephone follow-up for survey nonresponse and data clarification was conducted from October 2009 through June 2010. The weighted response rate was 89 percent.

This study is the third of its kind to be conducted by NCES. Previous studies were conducted during the 1994–95 and the 1999–2000 school years. In addition to including many of the research questions from the previous study, the current study addresses emerging issues, such as the availability of curriculum-based arts education activities outside of regular school hours. The secondary school survey collected data on the availability of music, visual arts, dance, and drama/theatre instruction; enrollment in these courses, the type of space used for arts instruction, the availability of curriculum guides for arts teachers to follow, and the number of arts teachers who are specialists in the subject. Principals reported on graduation requirements for coursework in the arts; school or district provision of teacher professional development in the arts; and arts education programs, activities, and events. Principals also reported on community partnerships and support from outside sources for arts education.