The 2019 Massachusetts Framework for the Arts establishes that all Massachusetts students will develop artistic literacy through active participation in the arts, expressing creative ideas with skill, confidence, and artistic intent.
A high-quality arts education empowers students to take artistic risks and supports the social emotional and learning needs of all students. Through practices related to creating, presenting/performing, responding, and connecting, students will understand the role of the arts in their individual lives and interests. While recognizing the intrinsic value of the arts, students will also discover the meaningful connections between the arts and other disciplines, and how the arts contribute to their communities and cultures around the world.
As art students respond to great artists and works of art, they develop the ability to analyze artworks in terms of their formal qualities, historic style, social context, and artistic intent. The practice of responding to works of art builds perceptive acuity and aesthetic sensitivity. A rigorous progression of learning and engagement with the arts throughout Pre-K–12 education is the foundation for a rich, lifelong relationship with the arts.
2019 Arts Curriculum Framework and Supporting Resources
The Arts & Cultural Vitality Index Click here to find out more about how this voluntary resource can be used to support equity and culturally sustaining practices in Massachusetts' arts programs, including:
PreK–12 Foundational Skills Progressions in the Arts
This resource provides schools and districts with additional guidance for unpacking the 2019 Arts Curriculum Framework by identifying how aligned foundational skills can be supported and developed in each arts discipline.
Foundational Skills Progressions for the Arts
Foundational Skills in Dance
Foundational Skills in Music
Foundational Skills in Theatre
Foundational Skills in Visual Arts
Media Arts Foundational Skills are anticipated for release in SY24-25.
Featured Resource: Guidebook of Culturally Diverse Artists and Artworks
Quick Reference Guide for Artistic Intent
Arts Unit Scoring Rubric — revised October 13, 2021
Quick Reference Guide for SEL in the Arts
Quick Reference Guide for Media Arts Education
Quick Reference Guide for Framework in Practice (Visual/Media Arts)
Quick Reference Guide for Framework in Practice (Performing Arts)
Last Updated: April 22, 2025