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HomeArts and AcademicsState of the Arts

State of the Arts

Educators have long recognized the value of music, art, drama and writing for students’ creative development and academic success. This series highlights the many enriching ways students are experiencing the arts.

Second-grade musical blends creativity, life lessons

Comstock Park Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
The annual performance helps students meet music and theater standards, while building confidence and showcasing their unique strengths.

Leaving her mark on the world with watercolors, pens and pencils

Byron Center Alexis Stark
West Middle School seventh-grade artist Mia McDowell is a finalist in the international Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes annual ARTEFFECT competition.

Basking in the glow of their art

Sparta Riley Kelley
More than 500 Ridgeview students created glow-in-the-dark, undersea art scenes for a recent project.

‘Very freeing’: Students sound off during poetry slam

Cedar Springs Riley Kelley
The poetry slam at Cedar Springs High School gives students an opportunity to express themselves in an encouraging environment.

‘Uniquely talented’ a cappella ensemble finds the right beat

Northview Beth Heinen Bell
What is From the Top? “A bunch of music nerds in a room, just jamming out together and bringing that energy.” Get to know this high school a cappella ensemble.
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Practice with a pro makes for perfect NYC performances 

Byron Center Alexis Stark
Byron Center High School’s jazz orchestra worked with professional musician Walter Blanding to prepare for their eighth trip to the Essentially Ellington Competition and Festival.

From humble beginnings to ArtPrize winner, artist shares his story

Forest Hills Brett Atwood
2023 ArtPrize winner Abdoulaye Conde recently visited Forest Hills elementary schools to share his life story and culture. 

Students showcase talent & skill during ‘Musical Madness’

Kelloggsville Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
From individual scale competitions to team “Jeopardy,” students demonstrated their musical knowledge while learning to work as a team. 

Middle-school artists add ‘squish’ to second-grade designs

Northview Beth Heinen Bell
When middle-school and second-grade artists join forces, anything’s possible. Even “Squishmallows.”

Young musicians team up with orchestra to play recorders & do the hand jive

Kenowa Hills Alexis Stark
Central Elementary fourth-graders recently played and sang alongside the Grand Rapids Symphony thanks to the Link Up concert program. 

Learning storytelling, self-confidence through dance

Godfrey-Lee Alexis Stark
Grand Rapids’ CARE Ballet dancers recently performed at the Early Childhood Center to teach second-graders how to tell stories through music and movement.

Student-led varsity dance team ‘like a second family’

Byron Center Alexis Stark
Byron Center’s varsity dance team is back, full of talent and taking competitions by storm.

Senior makes artistic mark on snowplow

Caledonia Alexis Stark
An original painting by Caledonia High School senior Josie Burns will be driving around on the blade of a local snow plow, featuring a message for Michigan drivers.

Fourth-grade Choristers come together in song

Northview Brett Atwood
We visited North Oakview Elementary School to see the Choristers vocal ensemble in action and discover how much work it takes to put a piece together. 

Alum returns as band director 

Thornapple Kellogg Alexis Stark
Thornapple Kellogg High School alum Clair Jansma is establishing trust and growing her confidence as the new band director, following the retirement of longtime director Ray Rickert.

Symphony visit all about sharing the music

Comstock Park Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
Elementary students explore instruments and music with help from a few Grand Rapids Symphony members.
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