Visual and Performing Arts

Music is a rigorous academic subject as well as an important tool for social-emotional learning. Music instruction is an important part of our students' well-rounded education. Our vision is that all students realize musical and personal success in an inclusive, collaborative, and creative community.

We currently offer general music instruction to our 4-8 grade elementary students, plus specialized instruction in band in grades 5-8 and chorus in grades 4-8. At the high school level, students can continue in band or choir, as well as explore classes in guitar, piano, show choir, musical theatre, big band and jazz combos, string orchestra, mariachi, music production, and music composition/ AP Music Theory.

The visual arts play a crucial role in a child's development, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. Through engaging in art projects, students learn to problem-solve, think outside the box, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. The process of creating art also helps children build fine motor skills, self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.

Studies show that students who participate in the arts tend to perform better academically and demonstrate improved focus and discipline. Art education also exposes children to diverse cultures and perspectives, encouraging empathy and appreciation for different forms of expression.

The world of drama plays a vital role in a child's development, nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. Through participating in theatrical performances, students learn to collaborate, embrace new perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of human emotions and social dynamics. The process of acting and storytelling also helps children build confidence, communication skills, discipline, and resiliency.

Drama education introduces children to a variety of cultural stories and perspectives, helping them to empathize with characters from different backgrounds and develop a broader worldview. This exposure not only enriches their artistic abilities but also enhances their critical thinking and social skills, preparing them for a diverse society

The art of movement and dance allows students to experience story telling conveyed through movement. Dance enhances creativity, physical coordination, and self-expression, and teaches students to interpret music, express emotions through movement, and cultivate a deeper awareness of their bodies. The process of learning choreography and collaborating with others also helps children build discipline, resilience, and a sense of achievement.

Students in dance develop spatial awareness and pattern recognition through movement, improve focus and self-regulation, are exposed to various cultural traditions and styles, which fosters appreciation for diversity and encourages empathy.

What if we told you that schools that effectively integrate arts into core subjects have shown significant progress in closing the achievement gap for students from low-income backgrounds?

View "Arts Bites" Integration Strategies