Wht is a well-rounded student? The importance of humanities in school curriculum

In these tough economic times, when federal and state governments fail to recognize the importance of eduating young people, and therefore, fail to fund education properly all while holding schools, teachers and students to standards that are, if not impossible to reach, then improbable to reach, schools are cutting those programs that do not directly apply to students passing the test (which tests only math, reading, English and science). That means schools cut art and music programs and staff.
Education Secretary Arne Duncan's speech discusses the need for art and music and social studies classes to create a well-rounded student. Read his speech and discuss what you think a well-rounded student should learn in school and out.

Learning

As far as grading goes, I believe it is important because it teaches kids to work hard and apply themselves in school. Even so, I don't believe that grades are the only means of evaluating a student. For example, I know many students who produce better grades than me, but yet I still know more common knowledge and Iam better informed on many topics. I believe this is because many students get too involved in trying to obtain good grades and they only learn the material for a short time. Where as students like myself like to learn things on our own and discover information not taught in the classroom. Don't get me wrong, things taught in class are important, but what you learn on your own in the world, is equally or possibly more important.
Jared Noyes

What Jared mentions is true. What do you think?