ArtsConnection

In 2011, the Foundation provided a first-time grant to ArtsConnection, an organization that connects artists with children and families in creative partnerships for teaching and learning. ArtsConnection programming includes in-school and afterschool residencies in dance, music, theater and the visual arts; collaborations between classroom teachers and teaching artists; exhibitions of student work; professional performances; and afterschool programs.

ArtsConnection’s Developing English Language Literature through the Arts (DELLTA) initiative provides standards-based theater and dance programs--which have been proven to increase language acquisition and cultural understanding among English language learners--while offering educators new insights and skills to effectively reach these students. DELLTA provides in-school instructional sessions to students in three high needs schools. Comprehensive programs in theater and dance are led by ArtsConnection teaching artists in collaboration with ESL teachers. Theater includes storytelling, creative dramatics and playwriting. Activities explore students’ own lives and broader themes, including dramatizing traditional tales and original stories through improvisation, pantomime and characterization. Dance explores culturally diverse dance traditions.