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| Arts Program in Poor Performing Schools Boosts Learning |
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It is a safe haven inside Florence Griffith Joyner Elementary School, where students like Kayla Driakare get to do what children like to do best:
"Singing and dancing.
And having fun with your friends."
Outside these walls, it’s a different world.
"High crime, high poverty.
There’s gun violence that really traumatize students, and so many of our students come to school with symptoms of post-traumatic stress."
Principal Akida Kissane Long says the symptoms of trauma were evident.
"Willful disobedience, primarily fighting, destruction of school property."
Leading to high suspension rates, this school was among the lowest 5% in California, qualifying for the Turnaround Arts program.
It provides arts education resources for schools and special training for teachers with the goal of incorporating the arts into the entire school curriculum.
"The children were so excited and have been so excited because it’s not just about -“Go to the board. Do the problem. Turn the page. Read the book.
'It’s about acting and impersonating artists and historic figures, and acting out the water cycle and becoming a butterfly that goes from caterpillar through the cocoon to an expansive beautiful winged insect."
Results are evident just one year into a 3-year program.
"We’ve probably suspended one kid this year.
That’s amazing."
And it’s not just here.
68 U.S. schools participate in Turnaround Arts.
A recent study shows fewer disciplinary actions, increased attendance and improved academic achievement.
At a time when the arts have been de-emphasized in favor of math and science in U.S. education, Turnaround Arts is making a case for a more holistic educational approach.
"Art speaks to everyone.
Arts isn’t a set aside.
It is part of what makes the curriculum rich and exciting and motivating."
Long says, with motivation comes learning across subjects, and she wants to turn Florence Griffith Joyner Elementary into a performing arts magnet school to keep funding flowing and continue to integrate the arts into the school.
Elizabeth Lee, VOA News, Los Angeles |
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