PERMA, a well-being construct from Positive Psychology, is readily applicable to Arts Education. Arts programs benefit by prioritizing connection over content. More than ever, our students must understand that they are more than test scores and AI-conduits, and their value comes from beyond what college they aspire to get into, or what their potential income will be derived from. Humanity must prevail. Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment enhance programs through shared experiences and being part of something greater than themselves. Arts educators are uniquely positioned to celebrate creativity, individuality, and life-long well-being, regardless of student career track.
