Make plans to attend Art on the Bricks Art Walk at the A3 Gallery, 228 S 1st Street, on Thursday, March 13th, from 4:30-7:30 pm. The community theme is "How Sweet it is" and the exhibiton will feature art and arts integration projects created by our middle school students. Some highlights will be visual art, photography, architecture models, historic reels and community participation installation that educates the public on pollution in our coeans. We look forward to seeing you at the A3!
AAA is proud to be a community partner with Downtown Rogers for this event. To learn more about Art on the Bricks visit https://artonthebricks.com/
Arkansas Arts Academy High School has been recognized by the Office for Education Policy (OEP) at the University of Arkansas as a school where students demonstrated high growth on the ATLAS!
Awards are based on the 2024 content growth score calculated by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. These growth scores reflect how much students at the school improved from 2023 compared to how much other students with similar prior achievement improved.
Due to the lingering icy road conditions in the 21 different communities we serve, AAA will be closed tomorrow, Friday, February 21, 2025. We will see everyone back at school on Monday, February 24, 2025. Stay safe and enjoy the weekend.
Arkansas Arts Academy will be closed tomorrow, Thursday, February 20, 2025.
The University of Arkansas School of Art is hosting a week long overnight Summer Arts Workshop for rising high school students in grades 10 - 12.
Students will be able to select a preferred area of interest in studio art, art history or education and take afternoon course sessions taught by School of Art faculty who are also working artists, designers, and scholars. Throughout the week they will meet with current students, different offices on campus, learning about applying to colleges, scholarship options, and a career in the arts.
Students will meet also visit various organizations from the Northwest Arkansas area, including e field trips to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, The Momentary, and other art galleries.
Dates of the camp will be from Saturday, June 14 through Saturday, June 21. The camp is free for students as well—including all meals, lodging, transportation to sites and events, and materials for their afternoon courses. For information about the Summer Workshop and to apply visit https://art.uark.edu/news-events/summer-arts-workshop.php
Application process is open on uarkart.slideroom.com Deadline for applications is March 21.
The Momentary is offering Teen Takeover on Friday February 28th from 6-8 pm!
Teen Takeovers are monthly events for teens to unwind, have fun, and meet other teens from the area, in a space designed just for them. February, theme is a game night. Teens can grab a snack and settle in for an epic evening filled with classic board games, retro consoles, and a thrilling Mario Kart tournament. It’s a night of fun, friendly rivalry, and unforgettable memories— they won't want to miss out!
This event is free, but registration is required. Visit the website to learn more and register.
https://themomentary.org/
Check out the calendar and plan to attend future Teen Takeover's on March 21st, April 18th, and May 23rd, with more dates coming soon.
Arkansas Arts Academy will be closed , Wednesday, February 19, 2025 due to Weather.
Stay safe and warm.
📢 Parent Meeting Alert! 📢
Join us on March 20 at 6:30 PM in the Arkansas Arts Academy Commons for an important meeting for parents of students with disabilities (ages 16+). A representative from Arkansas Rehabilitation Services will be presenting on the programs they offer to support post-graduation success.
This meeting will be especially beneficial for families of students currently on an IEP or 504 Plan. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about valuable resources for your student’s future!
📍 Arkansas Arts Academy Commons
📅 March 20 | 6:30 PM
We hope to see you there! 💙 #ParentMeeting #PostGradSuccess #IEP #504 #ArkansasRehabServices
Arkansas Arts Academy will be participating in the Downtown Rogers Art on the Bricks Art Walk at the A3 Gallery, 228 S 1st Street, on Thursday, February 13th, from 4:30-7:30 pm. As a satellite creative space, the A3 Gallery will transform into a hub of artistic expression and heartfelt community connection under the event’s theme, “Love Language.”
The evening will kick off with performances by the high school jazz band, middle school student music performances and spoken word. In addition the event will display student artwork spanning from elementary to high school levels. Attendees will have the opportunity to support young artists by purchasing pieces created by both elementary students and members of the High School Ceramic Club.For those with a sweet tooth, the AAA culinary class will be selling Valentine-inspired treats, adding a delicious touch to the festivities.
The event not only provides an opportunity to appreciate the talents of young artists and musicians but also to contribute to a meaningful cause. In collaboration with the non-profit organization Hugs From Friends, the high school Ukraine Club and the interdisciplinary club, the Department of Elsewhere, will host a community creation station. Visitors are invited to craft messages of support and hope for children impacted by the war in Ukraine. These messages will become part of the Peace, Love, and Hope installation, a powerful visual representation of solidarity and compassion.
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the power of the arts to connect, heal, and bring people together through music, visual art, or heartfelt messages!
Please join us tomorrow to celebrate our January Herd Heroes!
First grade is practicing the Ukulele today and making some beautiful music!
Make plans to attend Art on the Bricks at the A3 Gallery on Thursday February 13th from 4:30-7:30 pm! Students in Mrs. Joy Price's art classes have created beautiful hearts for purchase expressing the Love Language theme for February. In addition there will be music performances by HS Jazz musicians and Spoken Word shared by MS students. The ceramics club will have a table to sell art and Culinary students will have tasty treats for purchase. While visiting the gallery you will also have the opportunity to share a message of love and support at the community activity table. The Ukraine club and the Department of Elsewhere are collaborating with Hugs From Friends to create artwork, cards and messages to be sent to children affected by the war in Ukraine. We look forward to your participation! To learn more about Art on the Bricks visit: https://artonthebricks.com/
We are excited to share our upcoming events for February 2025! Please mark your calendars and join us for these special occasions.
2/2/2025 The ARTicle
https://aaa.edurooms.com/engage/arkansas-arts-academy/newsletters/the-article-2-2-25
**Highlighting Jessica Wasserman: Inspiring Scientific Curiosity and Creativity at Arkansas Arts Academy**
As we celebrate School Choice Week, we are proud to feature Jessica Wasserman, one of Arkansas Arts Academy’s dedicated science teachers. Through her innovative and student-centered approach, Ms. Wasserman empowers students to think critically and creatively, making science both accessible and inspiring.
**A Unique Educational Journey**
Ms. Wasserman chose to teach at Arkansas Arts Academy because of the school’s unique culture, which allows her to tailor educational experiences to fit not just each class but every individual student.
"The unique culture of the school allows me to tailor educational experiences to fit not just every class, but every student," she explained.
What truly sets the academy apart, in her view, is its emphasis on individuality and strength-based learning.
"At Arkansas Arts Academy, both students and staff are encouraged to embrace their strengths and individuality to showcase their skills and knowledge," Ms. Wasserman shared.
**A Philosophy of Personalized Learning**
The academy’s focus on arts education perfectly aligns with Ms. Wasserman’s educational philosophy. She believes that any student can learn anything with the right stimulation, guidance, and opportunity to demonstrate knowledge in a way that suits them best.
"Students have the freedom to show they have learned the lessons in a multitude of ways. Often that best comes across in a creative, artistic fashion as opposed to a traditional exam," she explained. "A student who can express knowledge of a scientific concept through various art forms actually understands it as opposed to simply spitting out rote memorization."
This personalized approach fosters deeper learning and engagement, allowing students to showcase their understanding in meaningful ways.
**Empowering Student Confidence**
The arts-based approach has led to significant positive changes in students, including increased confidence and a willingness to tackle complex subjects.
"Students are more confident and are more willing to tackle complex problems and subjects when they have a creative way of showing their knowledge," Ms. Wasserman noted.
**Professional Growth and Exploration**
Teaching at Arkansas Arts Academy has also had a profound impact on Ms. Wasserman’s growth as an educator. It has challenged her to think outside the box and create new ways to teach complex scientific topics.
"It forces me to think outside the box and create new approaches to teach complex topics on a daily basis," she shared. "It also allows me to explore my creative side, which as a scientist, has been subdued for a long time."
**A Culture of Collaboration and Inclusion**
Ms. Wasserman describes the school’s culture as one that promotes tolerance, collaboration, and belonging.
"Everyone is welcome at Arkansas Arts Academy, and it promotes a culture of tolerance and collaboration," she said.
Community involvement plays a crucial role in supporting the school’s mission. Parents, local organizations, and corporate partners work together to provide students with enriching experiences and opportunities.
"Having support from the community is paramount to student success. From parental involvement to corporate partnerships, the inclusion of the community into the school shows the students that they are valued and respected and influences them to become productive members of the same community," she emphasized.
**The Power of School Choice**
Ms. Wasserman believes that Arkansas Arts Academy exemplifies the benefits of school choice by offering families a unique educational opportunity.
"By choosing to enroll in Arkansas Arts Academy, students and families are taking an active role in their education," she explained. "It is a choice to go to a school that embraces artful investigations of all subjects. We do not turn out cookie-cutter scholars. Our students leave here confident in their knowledge and their abilities."
**Advice for New Educators**
For teachers considering Arkansas Arts Academy, Ms. Wasserman offers this advice:
"Dream big! This is the place where you can explore your creative side and challenge yourself. Have fun with it. If you enjoy what you are doing, that will pass along to the students and help them engage with difficult subjects."
As we reflect on the power of school choice, we celebrate educators like Ms. Wasserman who inspire curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning. Thank you, Ms. Wasserman, for making science come alive for your students!
**Highlighting Joy Schultz: Embracing Creativity at Arkansas Arts Academy**
In celebration of School Choice Week, we are thrilled to highlight one of Arkansas Arts Academy’s talented educators, visual art teacher Joy Schultz. Through her passion for art and education, Ms. Schultz embodies the academy’s mission to cultivate creativity and inspire lifelong learning.
**A Journey to Arkansas Arts Academy**
After relocating to Northwest Arkansas (NWA), Ms. Schultz sought a school where she could continue teaching art and develop a robust student art program. Having taught in a variety of educational settings, including large public schools and prep schools, she found something missing: a collaborative, arts-focused environment.
"I was often the only art teacher in each program and never had other art colleagues to share the load and program vision with," Ms. Schultz explained. "I wanted to experience what an arts-focused school could offer."
Arkansas Arts Academy provided exactly that opportunity. Its commitment to the arts and fostering creative growth resonated with Ms. Schultz’s aspirations.
**Educational Philosophy and Arts Integration**
Ms. Schultz is a choice-based art educator, emphasizing the importance of developing students' individual artistic voices. Her approach blends essential techniques, skills, and art history with opportunities for self-expression.
"I create a blended approach to the truest fashion—the way artists discover their inspirations," she said. "Teaching skills and art history is important, but finding your self-expression to communicate is valuable for a lifetime. I want to support lifelong learners and inspire a passion for creative thinking."
This philosophy aligns perfectly with the academy’s mission to nurture curiosity, grit, compassion, and a love of learning in its students.
**The Impact on Students**
The academy’s arts-based approach has led to remarkable changes in its students. According to Ms. Schultz, students at Arkansas Arts Academy embrace challenges with enthusiasm and curiosity.
"They are willing to try, experiment, and grow," she shared. This willingness to take risks and think critically is a hallmark of the academy’s culture.
**Professional Growth and Collaboration**
Teaching at Arkansas Arts Academy has also contributed to Ms. Schultz’s growth as an educator. She values the supportive atmosphere fostered by her colleagues, who are deeply committed to student success.
"My colleagues are passionate about reaching their students where they are and helping them achieve higher gains. They celebrate wins and offer support to keep moving forward," she noted.
**A Supportive School Culture**
Ms. Schultz described the academy’s culture as fluid and adaptable, always centered on meeting students’ needs. This dynamic environment fosters both academic and artistic excellence.
"We share our commitment with our students so they can learn and expand beyond our doors. Our students are cared for and encouraged to make healthy choices. I love how our students guide new peers to integrate into our community," she said.
She also emphasized the crucial role of parents and the broader community in supporting the academy’s programs. As arts programs continue to grow, community support helps to organize events, provide resources, and share the school’s success stories.
**The Benefits of School Choice**
For families seeking an arts-focused education, Arkansas Arts Academy exemplifies the benefits of school choice.
"If you have a child with gifts that need to be nurtured, this is the only arts school in NWA that can deliver it," Ms. Schultz stated. "We are a unique, strong, talented art faculty with passionate academic educators, and we all understand how to support creative thinkers."
**Advice for New Educators**
For teachers considering Arkansas Arts Academy, Ms. Schultz offers this advice:
"We have the opportunity to deliver a program that expresses your creative teaching style. We hit our marks, but we are not rigid in our approach. It’s a smaller school feel with big ideas that needs passionate educators to continue this journey for our incredible students."
As we celebrate School Choice Week, we honor educators like Ms. Schultz, who inspire creativity and a love for learning. Thank you, Ms. Schultz, for your dedication to empowering students through the arts!
**Highlighting Tim Smithey: A Passion for History and Creativity at Arkansas Arts Academy**
In honor of School Choice Week, we are excited to feature one of Arkansas Arts Academy’s dedicated educators, history teacher Tim Smithey. With a passion for blending creativity and academic excellence, Mr. Smithey exemplifies the academy’s commitment to arts integration and innovative learning.
**A Calling to Arkansas Arts Academy**
Mr. Smithey was drawn to Arkansas Arts Academy because of its unique approach to education, where creativity and academic rigor are equally valued.
"I was drawn to the school’s commitment to arts integration and its innovative approach to education. It’s a place where creativity and academic excellence go hand in hand," he explained.
Having worked in various educational settings, Mr. Smithey quickly recognized what makes the academy stand out:
"The deep integration of the arts into every subject truly sets it apart. Students are encouraged to think creatively, and the culture fosters both artistic expression and academic rigor."
**A Creative Approach to Teaching**
The academy’s arts-based focus aligns perfectly with Mr. Smithey’s teaching philosophy. He believes that learning should be engaging, hands-on, and creative.
"The academy’s arts-based approach allows me to teach in a way that fosters curiosity and deep understanding," he said.
In his daily lessons, Mr. Smithey uses music, visual arts, drama, and movement to reinforce key historical concepts. This dynamic approach makes history come alive for his students, helping them connect with the material on a deeper level.
**Inspiring Student Growth**
Mr. Smithey has witnessed remarkable transformations in his students as a result of the academy’s unique approach to education.
"Students gain confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and become more engaged in their learning," he noted. "The arts also provide them with a sense of identity and self-expression."
**Continuous Professional Growth**
Teaching at Arkansas Arts Academy has also pushed Mr. Smithey to grow as an educator. Known for his creative teaching style, he has found new ways to innovate and collaborate through partnerships with institutions such as Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC).
"This experience has challenged me to think even further outside the box," he shared. "Collaboration with local institutions has helped refine my teaching strategies to be more creative and student-centered."
**A Supportive and Inspiring School Culture**
Mr. Smithey describes the school’s culture as vibrant and supportive. Both students and teachers are encouraged to take risks, explore new ideas, and embrace their unique talents.
"It’s a vibrant, supportive, and inspiring environment where students and teachers alike are encouraged to take risks, explore new ideas, and embrace their unique talents," he emphasized.
Community involvement also plays a vital role in the academy’s success. Parents, local artists, and organizations collaborate to provide students with rich learning experiences, from performances to exhibitions.
"The community is incredibly involved. They help create opportunities that enrich our students’ education and bring learning to life," Mr. Smithey added.
**The Benefits of School Choice**
Arkansas Arts Academy exemplifies the benefits of school choice by offering families a learning environment that nurtures creativity, innovation, and personalized education.
"It gives families an opportunity to choose an education that nurtures creativity, innovation, and individualized learning—something not always available in traditional settings," said Mr. Smithey.
**Advice for New Educators**
For teachers considering Arkansas Arts Academy, Mr. Smithey offers this advice:
"Embrace the creativity, be open to collaboration, and don’t be afraid to try new teaching methods. This is a place where both students and educators can grow in extraordinary ways."
As we celebrate School Choice Week, we applaud Mr. Smithey’s dedication to inspiring creativity and fostering a love of learning. Thank you, Mr. Smithey, for making history come alive for your students!
Make plans to attend Art on the Bricks at the A3 Gallery on Thursday February 13th from 4:30-7:30 pm!
February's theme is Love Language. The A3 Gallery will have art work from elementary and high school students on display as well as music performances by HS Jazz musicians and Spoken Word shared by MS students. The ceramics club will have a table to sell art and culinary students will have tasty treats for purchase. While in the gallery create a message of love and support at the community activity table with the Ukraine club and the Department of Elsewhere as they collaborate with Hugs From Friends; artwork, cards and messages will be sent to children affected by the war in Ukraine. We look forward to your participation!
To learn more about Art on the Bricks visit: https://artonthebricks.com/
