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. Yet the arts remain squeezed by tight budgets and test-driven performance standards. This series highlights efforts to protect and promote school arts programs.

Theater students find community through ‘Matilda’ musical

Lowell Meghan Gracy

While the story of Matilda showcases a dysfunctional family, the Lowell High School cast performing the musical has found kinship through their production...

Being fully present

Forest Hills Carol Lautenbach

The mind contributes to the sound, tone and feelings musicians produce. Learning mindfulness benefits the musician and contributes to harmony of all kinds in this Central Woodlands classroom...

Pinch pots, penguins, pumpkins & more

Comstock Park Karen Gentry

Stoney Creek Elementary students are learning the basics of art and their mediums, then showing off their skills to friends and family...

Student art gets gallery showing

Byron Center Alexis Stark

Byron Center students learned different artistic techniques and got to see their projects displayed in downtown Grand Rapids...

Students present artistic twist on being nice

Lowell Erin Albanese

Students display art to share messages of kindness, community and compassion...

Student artwork depicting Michigan’s strengths wins state competition

Forest Hills Carol Lautenbach

When announcing the winner of this year’s State of the State art contest, Lt. Gov. Garland Gilchrist said he was encouraged “to see Michigan’s strengths through these students’ eyes”...

Thanks to Ariel, he’s part of that world

East Grand Rapids Beth Heinen Bell

A former student-turned-Disney artist shared his talents and advice with middle school digital art students, and shows it’s about more than following a dream...

00:03:31