- Mission Statement
- California VAPA Framework
- Collaboration with Local Arts Professionals
- Benefits of Arts-Integrated Learning
- Preparing Students for Lifelong Success
Mission Statement
Antelope Creek Elementary’s mission is to develop lifelong learners through collaborative communities that celebrate diverse strengths, abilities, and gifts. Antelope Creek equips students with academic success and social-emotional well-being by enhancing learning through Spark the Arts. The school’s guiding principles are to create a safe and welcoming environment, strong partnerships, and innovation in teaching and learning.
Students in Transitional Kindergarten (TK) through 6th grade are empowered to achieve academic excellence while developing lifelong skills through the transformative power of the arts. The curriculum is organized in conjunction with California Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) standards, fostering a learning experience that is creative, collaborative, and meaningful.
California VAPA Framework
A Unique Approach: Six Units of Artistic Literacy
The standards are thoughtfully organized into six thematic units inspired by the California VAPA framework:
- Art as Communication – Exploring how art conveys ideas and emotions.
- Art as Personal Realization – Developing self-awareness and personal growth through creative expression.
- Art as a Means to Wellbeing – Nurturing mental, emotional, and physical health through artistic practices.
- Art as Profession – Learning the skills and disciplines of creative careers.
- Art as Culture, History, and Connectors – Examining how art shapes and reflects societies across time.
- Art as Community Engagement – Building connections through collaborative artistic endeavors.
Each unit centers on a masterwork from visual art, music, drama, dance, or media arts, weaving thematic connections between art and core academic subjects like language arts, math, science, and social studies. This interdisciplinary approach deepens student understanding, engagement, and appreciation of both academics and the arts.
Collaboration with Local Arts Professionals
Antelope Creek partners with local visual and performing arts professionals to collaborate with teachers and enrich classroom learning. These experts also provide after-school enrichment programs, offering students hands-on opportunities to explore artistic fields, from theater and visual arts to digital media and dance.
Benefits of Arts-Integrated Learning
Research shows that intertwining the arts with academic subjects boosts critical thinking, creativity, and engagement. At Antelope Creek:
- Academic Learning Flourishes: Students retain concepts better through experiential, arts-based lessons.
- Personal Growth Thrives: The arts inspire confidence, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning.
- Embraces Differences: Arts expose students to diverse cultures and perspectives, fostering inclusivity.
- Builds Empathy: Engaging with art deepens emotional understanding and connection with others.
- Encourages Creativity: Arts integration inspires innovation and flexible thinking.
- Strengthens Collaboration: Group projects enhance teamwork and communication skills.
- Develops Resilience: The creative process teaches perseverance and problem-solving.
- Workforce Readiness Increases: Artistic thinking fosters adaptability and innovation—key skills for any career.
- Prepares for Life: Artistic literacy nurtures adaptability, cultural awareness, and lifelong learning skills.
Preparing Students for Lifelong Success
By integrating the arts into every aspect of learning, Antelope Creek will prepare students for a future where creativity and collaboration are essential. Students will have the skills to thrive in the workforce and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Discover how Antelope Creek is redefining education through the arts. Enroll today and watch your child’s creativity and potential soar!
