Bridging Community Arts Organizations and Public Schools: Reluctance to Learn

• In Event: 35.082 - Roundtable Session 14
  In Roundtable Session: 35.082-21 - Aesthetic and Cultural Learning in Museums and Public Spaces

Abstract

For the past two years four community arts organizations made a unique offer to the public schools in Portland, Maine, each student has four free tickets to attend school-time performances or events. What can arts organizations do to create opportunities for students to attend community arts events; and what can public school staff do to accomplish learning and accommodate accountability standards? The target was 75% participation rates by the end of the second year; 7 out of 11 elementary schools exceeded 75% participation in at least two of the community arts events. Two middle schools attained the 75% target for one arts event, and high schools attained less then 50% participation rate, despite overwhelming support and enthusiasm.

Author

• Jeffrey S. Beaudry, University of Southern Maine