A+ Schools of North Carolina announced today that it has accepted seven new schools to join the A+ Schools Network. A+ Schools of North Carolina is one of the longest-running and most successful arts-based school reform models in the country.
The seven new schools, located in Charlotte, China Grove, Fayetteville, Kannapolis, Mebane, and Raleigh, will join the A+ Network following a five-day institute that will be held this July.
“The number of schools joining the A+ Network is at its highest number since A+ was initiated more than 20 years ago,” said Michelle Burrows, A+ Schools director. “The continued growth of the program speaks to how successful the arts can be in engaging students in learning and in providing inspiration for every subject area.”
Currently, there are 56 A+ schools across the state that are part of a network of schools that teach the state curriculum standards through a multi-disciplined, collaborative approach, with the arts continuously woven into the learning experience.
Research shows that students’ proficiency and overall school performance increases following implementation of A+ practice and philosophy. A+ schools also report improved attendance, fewer disciplinary problems, stronger teacher satisfaction and higher levels of community and parental involvement.
A+ Schools of North Carolina is a state and national leader in providing quality professional development that supports comprehensive arts education and other creative and cutting-edge educational practices.
Schools joining the network this summer include:
- Audrey Garrett Elementary (Mebane)
- Capitol Encore Academy (Fayetteville)
- China Grove Elementary (China Grove)
- Greenway Park Elementary (Charlotte)
- Long Creek Elementary (Charlotte)
- Raleigh Oak Charter (Raleigh)
- Royal Oaks Elementary (Kannapolis)
A+ Schools of North Carolina will begin the recruitment process for summer 2019 entry with two information sessions in March:
- Tues., March 6, 5–7 p.m. at the Wayne County Arts Council in Goldsboro, N.C.
- Wed., March 7. 5–7 p.m. at the SALT Block, Hickory, N.C.
To reserve a spot at an information session or to learn more about A+ Schools, visit http://aplus-schools.ncdcr.gov/ or contact Michelle Burrows at michelle.burrows@ncdcr.gov.
A+ Schools of North Carolina is a signature program of the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency of the North Carolina Department of Natural & Cultural Resources.