STAGE 1:
Building a Community Arts Team

One of the critical elements of success in arts education planning is assembling a winning team. By tapping into the respected, established district leadership, cultivating relationships with leaders in the community and involving committed parents, teachers and arts supporters, a strong collaborative will emerge.

Recruiting the Team

You may have heard, “If you want something done, ask a busy person.” This adage can certainly be applied to your arts education planning effort. You want to seek out the most dynamic, enthusiastic, and passionate people for your team.

On the district side, it is absolutely critical to have the direct support of the superintendent, the commitment of a high-level district administrator (e.g., assistant superintendent or director of curriculum and instruction) as well as principals and teachers from different disciplines and grade levels. On the community side, it is strongly suggested that you invite the school board president or other school board member, PTA/PTO leadership, arts organization leaders and business leaders. The combination of the district and community coming together creates a fabric that is strong, supple and flexible. It is this weaving together as one team with a shared vision that allows new ideas, relationships and energy to emerge.

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