Celebrating American Education Week with ArtsReach Outreach Programs

Since 1921, American Education Week has recognized the teachers and education support professionals who help students succeed. This year, Arts+ is excited to join in the celebration by highlighting our ArtsReach outreach programs.

The ArtsReach outreach program provides free music and visual art programming to hundreds of children, seniors, and families at local community centers, Title I schools, and behavioral health centers at absolutely no cost. The students it serves face several barriers to their success, from homelessness to under-resourced schools to emotional and behavioral problems, and ArtsReach offers the opportunity for participants to express themselves creatively and dream of new possibilities.

In one visual art program taught by local artist Tashonda Wright with GEP (Greater Enrichment Program), students have created "I love myself" self portraits. They use skin tone paper and a variety of collage items to create portraits showcasing either realistic appearance or their "dream" appearance (such as bright purple hair). They then list things about themselves they see as positive traits or things they are proud of. The project teaches observation, problem solving (how to use the materials to make the image you want), personal reflection, and self esteem.

"I love working with communities who may not have access to Arts+ programming otherwise due to financial struggles, transportation issues, or lack of time," says Director of Visual Art Programs Caroline Tippette. "The students are always excited, share wonderful stories and ideas, and really appreciate getting to try new things and work with new materials."

Kinsey Fournier, Associate Director of Music Programs, manages our brass band program at First Baptist Church West. Taught by local musician James Curry, the weekly class encourages skills in problem solving, self-confidence, and collaboration with peers.

For Kinsey, the most impactful part of working with ArtsReach is seeing students grow year after year. "I love seeing the students return at the beginning of each school year. They are so excited to see the friends they made from class last year and continue to improve on their instruments," she says.

Each year, ArtsReach serves hundreds of students who wouldn't otherwise have access to the benefits of arts education. This would not be possible without the staff; instructors; donors Lift Up Carolinas, U.S. Bank, and Southminster; and partner sites including ourBRIDGE, The Relatives, and Families Forward Charlotte who bring ArtsReach to life.