The "Learning through Arts" (LtA) program is an art-making curriculum for Massachusetts elementary school children (K-5) designed to complement existing programming by reinforcing key academic concepts, as outlined by the Department of Education, through the study of an art form. The program is currently being tested at the Morningside Community School in Pittsfield.

Each LtA module follows the same basic model. Students meet for 8 sessions, once a week after-school. The children are guided through art-making projects that include an element of research. The culmination of the program is an ending ‘art show’ and certificate ceremony to which parents, teachers and the larger community are invited.

The modules are:
“Learning Health through Mixed Media” (Kindergarten)
“Learning Reading through Fiber Arts” (Grade 1)
“Learning Grammar through Painting” (Grade 2)
“Learning Math through Printmaking” (Grade 3)
“Learning Life Science through Sculpture” (Grade 4)
“Learning American History through Ceramics” (Grade 5)

Once fully tested the LtA curriculum will be rolled out to other area elementary schools.

Development of the “Learning through Arts” curriculum has been made possible through the support of the Berkshire Bank Foundation, Legacy Banks Foundation, Morningside Advisory Council, Pittsfield Cooperative Bank, Pittsfield Education Enrichment Fund, the Pittsfield Rotary and the Robbins-de Beaumont Foundation.

For information on how to launch the LtA Program at your school or for more details call Hope at 413-298-5252 X101.