Not everyone is interested in pursuing a career in science or math, which is fortunate, because if the whole planet were filled with scientists and mathematicians, there would be no artists.

"I struggled through all the academics of high school but found refuge in my art and shop classes," says Dennis Zupan, a potter of extraordinary ability who spent 30 years teaching pottery and jewelry making at public schools, colleges, and universities.

He considers art vital and necessary "refuge classes" for right-brained, creative individuals who struggle in a school system that too heavily promotes...