Art students in the 2026 mid-term exam can be exempted from a maximum of 20 points. This exemption is based on the understanding that art subjects require a different set of skills and knowledge compared to traditional academic subjects. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) in 2021, art students tend to score lower in standardized tests due to the subjective nature of their assessments. The NAEP reported that art students scored an average of 18 points lower than their peers in other subjects. Therefore, to accommodate the unique challenges faced by art students, a 20-point exemption is provided to ensure a fair evaluation of their abilities.

The exemption is designed to account for the subjective nature of art assessments, which often rely on personal interpretation and creativity. In contrast, traditional academic subjects like mathematics and science are typically evaluated through objective, quantifiable measures. This discrepancy in assessment methods can lead to lower scores for art students, even if they possess a strong understanding of the subject matter. The 20-point exemption aims to correct for this discrepancy and provide a more accurate representation of an art student's abilities.

Additionally, the exemption is intended to encourage students to pursue their passion for art without the pressure of traditional academic expectations. By reducing the weight of the mid-term exam, art students are given the opportunity to focus on their creative development and artistic growth. This approach aligns with the goals of the National Education Association (NEA), which emphasizes the importance of fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in students.

In conclusion, art students in the 2026 mid-term exam can be exempted from a maximum of 20 points to account for the subjective nature of art assessments and to encourage creativity and artistic development. This exemption is based on data from the NAEP and the NEA's emphasis on fostering critical thinking and creativity in students.