Performing Arts

5 Ways Art Activities and Clubs Can Benefit You

By Katie Hodgins on March 14th, 2023

We’re excited to celebrate “Arts in Education” month! Did you know that the arts can play a very important role in your academic success? Research studies show that the arts engage students and increase learning and achievement. For example, students who participate in drama have increased reading readiness and word fluency in elementary grades, and continue to improve reading comprehension and writing skills through middle and high school. But that’s not all! Keep reading to discover five more ways art activities and clubs can benefit you.

Using Hamilton the Musical in the Classroom

By Guest Blogger on September 28th, 2016

The winner of the 2016 Tony for Best Musical was “Hamilton,” an untraditional, hip-hop musical written by Lin-Manuel Miranda about the life of Alexander Hamilton.

The popularity of this musical is impossible to deny – and the most amazing thing is that this hip-hop soundtrack to a founding father’s life has captivated teenagers in a way perhaps no other musical ever has before.

There is no denying this musical crosses age and cultural gaps and has brought a new love for musical theater that is refreshing and powerful. Many teachers are using this incredible soundtrack to start discussions about our history and to reinvent how students study such an important time period.

It is possible teachers of any content could use Hamilton’s addictive appeal to energize their classrooms, but I will share some ideas specifically for English and History teachers. Continue reading