Around the Schools
Adams Elementary wins presitgious Schools of Excellence in Arts Education Award
Congratulations to Adams Elementary School for winning the second annual Schools of Excellence in Arts Education Award. This prestigious award was presented to the top two K-12 schools in Washington state with exemplary art education programs.
Schools were chosen based on five guiding principles. First, they were required to incorporate all four of the arts disciplines – music, dance, theater and visual arts. They also needed to use creative approaches to learning, encourage parental involvement, learn about other cultures through art, and promote community connections that extend beyond the classroom setting.
Adams was chosen because it “directly integrates the arts into its curriculum and links it to district and state standards.” The PTA, parents and grants have helped to expand Adams’ multifaceted arts program. The school is currently working on creating a “systemic, articulated K-5 arts curriculum plan.”
Having long been known as an arts powerhouse, in 2005 Adams was recognized by the King County Arts Commission for excellence in incorporating art into student learning.
“It’s important to celebrate schools, such as these, that are taking active and intentional steps to ensure students receive instruction in the arts during school hours – required by law in Washington state,” said Una McAlinden, executive director for ArtsEd Washington. “The commitment of the school principals and teachers to provide the arts equitably is critical to the long-term sustainability of these programs and ensures that every student reaps the many benefits of sustained arts participation.”
The Schools of Excellence in Arts Education Award was inspired by a program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and it was presented by ArtsEd Washington in partnership with the Association of Washington School Principals.
Photo courtesy of Julia Kuskin
An Adams Elementary student paints as part of the school's integration of arts and learning.