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.

Senior dreams of telling stories through art as tattoo artist

Wyoming Erin Albanese

Wyoming High School senior Charlie Baker, whose artwork is on display at McDonald’s, talks about his future plans in art.

She helps students grow and discover ‘the power in what music can do’

Kent City Beth Heinen Bell

“Music is something that I’d like kids to keep with them for a lifetime, and hopefully I can encourage that,” says elementary music teacher Rhonda Vanderwest. Discover why being at the front of the classroom brings her joy.

Student artwork soars in Heritage Hill ArtPrize exhibit

Grand Rapids Riley Kelley

Take a look at how students helped bring this community art installation to life.

Grads paint a pathway for younger students

Wyoming Erin Albanese

Two graduates are sharing art with the school they once attended through an aspirational mural.

Marching band camp 101: Long days, beautiful noise

Northview Brett Atwood

“A lot of people don’t realize how physical (marching band) is.” Discover all the work that happens at marching band camp to put together a full show.

Musical theater camp sets the stage for show-stopping fun

Forest Hills Brett Atwood

Young performers shine as they learn the ins and outs of musical theater.

Arts Council elimination could negatively impact schools

All Districts Morgan Jarema

The Michigan House has voted to approve a state budget that would eliminate the Michigan Arts and Culture Council. That has the potential to cut arts programs in schools across the state.

Pieces of Godwin’s story come together as one puzzle

Godwin Heights Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

A district-wide art project highlights each student’s individuality while illustrating how they all fit together.

Kelloggsville band ready to ‘soar’ on national stage

Kelloggsville Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

The band is the only one from Michigan that will be participating in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington D.C.

Helping students see what’s possible through arts careers

Kent ISD Riley Kelley

From comics and graphic design to video game production, art educators talked about the various career opportunities their skilled students have before them.

Sixth-grader draws attention with art skills

Godwin Heights Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

Weston Minnema earned a Yes I Can! Award for art from the Michigan Council for Exceptional Children.

Future songwriters, audio engineers learning to create in production lab

Northview Brett Atwood

In Northview High School’s Music Production class, students learn the ins and outs of audio production, using state-of-the-art gear.

Creating art ‘in a way that works for them’

Grandville Beth Heinen Bell

Adaptive tools are making a big difference for elementary students in this teacher’s ASD art class.

First taste of theater begins with tea, treats & tiaras

Kentwood Erin Albanese

Kentwood Public Schools sent families an invitation to an elegant high tea event before welcoming many to their children’s first musical.

Theater company, choirs to revisit the past & imagine the future

Wyoming Erin Albanese

To show off their renovated auditorium, Wyoming Public Schools thespians and choral singers are joining forces in a collaboration and walk down memory lane.

Actors reflect on history’s lessons, speaking out

Byron Center Alexis Stark

Byron Center High School’s theater club brings "Newsies" to the Van Singel Fine Arts Center stage, empowered by the show’s message of empowering youth to speak out against injustice.

12 3...12 Page 1 of 12