Arts-in-Education

Since 2004, PCCA has worked as a Partner with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts to implement arts residencies in Perry, Juniata, Mifflin, Snyder, Union, and Northumberland Counties. We place professional artists in classrooms to mentor students K-12. Among our many recent accomplishments:

Musician Tom Jolin taught fifth graders who had never previously touched a musical instrument how to play a passable Amazing Grace.

Poet Jennifer Hill-Kaucher’s fifth graders enthralled an assembly of over 250 students and parents with poems that emphasized self-disclosure, an act of artistry and bravery.

Guitarist Alphonse Ciaccio sparked a sense of success within a young man who was incarcerated at Loysville Youth Development Center, helping him to learn that by applying himself with discipline to the guitar that he could be successful.

Greenwood High School now boasts of an amazing mural created by students and ceramic muralist David Wood that is a genuine showpiece and a “must-see” on any tour of the facility.

Artists are carefully screened, qualified and guided to work cooperatively with teachers. Their programs typically include engaging, memorable hands-on activities including dance, literature, drama, visual arts, music and theater.

Schools, community organizations, libraries and other public and private organizations are welcome to become a residency host site. PCCA serves as the liason between the host and artist to ensure a successful and rewarding program. PCCA staff assists with contracts, handles housing and travel arrangements, and collects and disperses all fees.

Residencies range from 10-30 days. Residencies are jointly funded by PCCA and the hosting education system. Business, community and government leaders are encouraged to provide valuable monetary support to help make this cost-effective, quality education available.

For more info: http://www.pacouncilonthearts.org