Success through Art (StART) Schools - August 25, 2011

Program Overview
StART grants support in-school arts learning for K-12 students, both formal training in the arts and arts infused into other disciplines or subject areas. CCI’s intent is to help establish a cadre of model schools that will define, plan and implement arts education programs that are specifically aligned with Colorado Academic Standards and with their school or district learning goals. These model programs are becoming a network that will share promising practices and support one another through CCI assistance.

Applicants must be Colorado public schools, including charters. Although CCI requires collaborations with artists, arts organizations and higher education, only K-12 institutions may apply. Private or sectarian schools are not eligible.

These grants support the implementation of in-school activities related to an Arts Education Strategic Plan to make standards-based arts instruction and/or integration of the arts a fundamental part of the basic curriculum for students. Such plans should also support teachers in developing instructional practices around the arts as content areas and as integrated content in other subjects. Applicants will need to submit the plan, evidence that the plan was developed and is supported by a broad-based Arts Steering Committee, and a statement of commitment for the implementation activities from building leadership.

Successful StART Schools applicants will show evidence of the key components of successful arts-based school reform models, including:

Alignment with Colorado Academic Standards and the school or district educational goals and practices.
A strategic plan with a specific time frame that includes detailed strategies and student outcomes.
A commitment to collect and analyze data and share progress.
A variety of programs and activities that value the arts as rigorous academic subjects—“learning IN the arts”—as well as arts infused within other academic disciplines to enhance and reinforce learning—“learning THROUGH the arts”.
Strong parent and community outreach and support for quality arts opportunities for all students.
Commitment to ongoing professional development in the arts for teachers and administrators.
The involvement of professional artists and community arts and cultural organizations in collaboration with educators to provide and enhance arts learning opportunities for students.

CCI offers applications for StART Planning and Implementation grants on a rotating basis. For the 2011-2012 school year, ONLY ARTS EDUCATION IMPLEMENTATION GRANTS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Due to the relatively small amount of funding available for StART awards, schools that are currently funded through the StART Implementation grants or school that are currently completing a StART Planning Grant are the primary targets of this year’s StART awards. However, schools that are not currently funded by a CCI StART grant, but have chosen the arts as an integral part of their teaching and learning environment may be eligible. These applicants must receive approval to apply for a StART grant from Arts Education Manager, Sheila Sears (303-892-3852 Sheila.Sears@state.co.us) as well as meet the other requirements outlined in the StART Arts Education Implementation Grant guidelines.