‘Setting the stage’ for excellence in arts education
Kentucky School Advocate
June 2019
By Josh Shoulta
Staff writer
Building a network of partners to support arts education is crucial in being able to sustain and grow an arts program, said Steve Becker, Danville Schools board member.
“You have to go out and find everyone involved in the arts in your community,” he said. While the city of Danville and surrounding area is fortunate to have an established arts community, the potential for partnerships exists everywhere, he said.
“I know that out in the other school districts (the partnerships) are there,” Becker said. You just have to go find them.”
Districts seeking to enhance arts educational opportunities should consider these questions:
• Who will play the lead role? Whether through a full-time arts director like Danville has, or part-time duties added to an existing job, districts should ensure that a voice for arts education is invited to participate in district planning. Identify those individuals who are champions for the arts and give them a seat at the table.
• Explore the space. Does your district have a space for effective arts programming? Define a physical space as your arts headquarters. It doesn’t have to be an auditorium or a new facility. Find an unused classroom or office, clean out a storage space or use a multipurpose room.
• Grab some dance partners. Job shadowing programs, dual credit, athletic sponsorships; all examples of community partnerships. The same is possible with the arts. Is your region home to any arts organizations, historic sites, libraries or cultural tourism that stand to benefit from collaboration?
• Your campus is your canvas. Do the common areas of your schools celebrate the creative talents of your students? The wall of a board room can easily become an art gallery. Look for opportunities to showcase student talent. Cultivate that culture.
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