Enhancing Student Access to Arts Education
Think Together, in collaboration with the Orange County School of the Arts, is dedicated to amplifying the reach of arts education for students in the local community. This innovative partnership aims to expand access to high-quality arts programs that enrich the educational experience for many students.
Expanding Opportunities Through Arts Enrichment
Students from the Paramount Unified School District can now engage in immersive arts experiences, thanks to the Arts Enrichment Accelerator program. This initiative offers students the unique chance to learn from skilled OCSA teaching artists in various settings, including afterschool programs and during non-instructional days in spring and summer. Hands-on learning in cultural dance forms such as ballet folklorico and vibrant music lessons in mariachi is now available.
Empowering Students Through Arts Education
Jaclyn Aviles, the Innovations Lab Senior Strategist for Think Together, emphasized, "This new development of our Arts Accelerator allows us to expand our reach with Orange County School of the Arts, enriching our students' learning with world-class arts education. These experiences empower students to discover their passions and build confidence that carries far beyond the academic space." These enriching experiences not only teach students technical skills but also allow them to explore the history and significance of the dances and music they embrace.
Wider Reach of Arts Education Programs
In addition to visual and performing arts education, students from Paularino Elementary in Newport-Mesa Unified School District have participated in a culinary arts pilot program this spring. This initiative highlights the importance of nutrition and creativity, teaching students how to blend flavors while creating delicious recipes.
Growth of the Arts Enrichment Accelerator
The Arts Enrichment Accelerator was launched in collaboration with the Orange County School of the Arts, already serving over 3,000 students across various districts. This includes areas in Southern California where students gain the opportunity to express their creativity and explore potential career paths in the arts. The objective is to deliver dynamic arts education that supports self-expression and artistic growth.
Brian Stevens, Director of Community Engagement for OCSA, shared the sentiment, asserting the importance of community involvement to tackle the arts-related challenges within Southern California and beyond. He noted, "By partnering with Think Together, we can effectively scale our programs to reach many more students. Think Together is deeply committed to uniting communities, and OCSA resonates with that vision."
Showcasing Student Talents
As part of the Arts Accelerator experience, students' friends and families are invited to special events that showcase their newly acquired skills. These culminating events are designed to celebrate the students' hard work and include demonstrations of their talents in ballet folklorico and mariachi performances. Recently, students from Howard Tanner Elementary School showcased their skills in an impressive event, highlighting their journey through this enriching program.
Randy Barth, founder and CEO of Think Together, articulated the overarching vision: "Our goal is to ensure that all students, particularly those from historically marginalized communities in California, graduate with a broad spectrum of life choices. The collaboration with Orange County School of the Arts is instrumental in opening doors for our students' bright futures."
Future Plans for the Arts Accelerator
Looking ahead, Think Together and OCSA remain committed to advancing the Arts Enrichment Accelerator initiative, continuing to introduce elevated arts curricula into Paramount Unified School District's programs. Exciting developments are on the horizon, particularly with the upcoming participation of Lynwood Unified School District in the Arts Enrichment Accelerator.
About Think Together
With over 25 years of dedication, Think Together has collaborated with schools and communities to foster educational excellence for all students. As a nonprofit organization, it provides innovative educational solutions that enhance academic outcomes for countless California students annually. Their programs encompass early learning, afterschool initiatives, staffing solutions, and leadership development for educators and school administrators. For additional information, reach out to their office directly.
About Orange County School of the Arts
The Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) is recognized nationally for its dedication to arts and academic education in a vibrant environment, serving a diverse student body with a passion for the arts. Established in 1987, OCSA enrolls approximately 2,300 talented students in grades seven through twelve, providing rigorous academics alongside pre-professional arts training in various disciplines. Funding relies on private donations, crucial for sustaining their arts programs. For more details, visit their official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Think Together's mission?
Think Together’s mission is to provide educational opportunities and excellence for all students, focusing on those from marginalized communities.
What kind of programs does the Arts Enrichment Accelerator offer?
The Arts Enrichment Accelerator offers hands-on learning in visual and performing arts, including dance and music lessons.
Which students benefit from this program?
Students from various school districts, including Paramount Unified School District and Newport-Mesa Unified School District, are benefiting from this initiative.
How does the partnership with OCSA enhance arts education?
The partnership with OCSA allows access to professional teaching artists who provide high-quality arts education, thereby enriching student experiences.
What future plans does Think Together have for this initiative?
Think Together plans to continue expanding its Arts Enrichment Accelerator, integrating more school districts and enhancing artistic curricula to reach more students.
