The Arizona State Seal of Arts Proficiency is the latest testament to a rich history of excellent arts education in the state. This diploma seal is administered by the Arizona Department of Education’s Office of Arts Education and is awarded to graduates who complete minimum arts pathway requirements throughout their high school career. The State Seal of Arts Proficiency, or SB1111 as sponsored by Senator Paul Boyer, had bipartisan support and was a grassroots effort from Arizona Arts Education advocates from across the state. It was signed into law by Governor Doug Ducey on May 14th, 2019. Board rule was adopted by the State Board of Education on October 28th, 2019.

After the approval of SB1111, the Arizona Department of Education encouraged students to submit their designs for the seal. The winning design pictured here was submitted by Chloe Ball from Pinnacle High school in the Paradise Valley School District. This design will be printed on copper foil and affixed to diplomas of all future graduates who qualify for the Arizona State Seal of Arts Proficiency.

Stakeholders from across the state of Arizona convened during the summer of 2019 to outline seal objectives and pathway requirements. The goals of the Arizona State Seal of Arts Proficiency are to:  

• Celebrate students who demonstrate elevated levels of proficiency in the Arizona Arts Education Standards through personal expression and creative experiences in arts education programs  
• Identify pathways of artistic literacy that cultivate skills for 21st century success 
• Prepare students for college and career readiness, including active participation in the creative industries sector  
• Promote increased access to well-rounded, high-quality arts education across the state