It is recognized nationally that when arts are included in the classroom, learning increases on every level. Our academic curriculum, enhanced with arts integration, challenges and engages more students, increases academic performance and instills a sense of fun and discovery in every student and teacher. At Adams, every student experiences kinesthetic (hands-on) learning that is fun and rewarding and uses the body as well as the mind. Every arts activity is tied to Seattle School District standards, so teachers are trained to include the arts while still teaching “the basics.” In the spring of 2005, Adams was recognized by the King County Arts commission at a special awards ceremony for its excellence in integrating art into the learning curriculum. And then, in the fall of 2005, Adams received the prestigious Mayor’s Arts Award, presented at the opening ceremony of the Bumbershoot Festival.

Arts integration means using the arts to assist in teaching every academic subject. Music, drawing, painting, drama and movement are all integrated into the classroom program. One class learns about the details of electrical switches by making scientific drawings. Another class learns about geometry while silk-screening a banner. Another class might practice grammar by reading and writing poetry, while yet another enhances physical fitness by learning to juggle! Field trips to the symphony, art museums and ballet expose students to a variety of genres in music, dance and art.