BY BRETT BENNETT Northwest Arkansas Times
Posted on Friday, February 22, 2008
URL: http://www.nwanews.com/nwat/News/62456/
The opportunity to see a play might just make a difference in a child’s life.
That’s one of the concepts behind the Walton Arts Center’s new 100 Percent Schools initiative, which encourages Northwest Arkansas elementary schools to send every classroom to an arts center event once a year.
Thursday evening at the center, prior to a performance by the African Children’s Choir, center staff held a reception in the McBride Studio to recognize schools that are fulfilling the initiative, which started this school year.
Laura Goodwin, director of learning for the center, said officials think giving children access to the arts can provide a good learning experience in conjunction with traditional school curriculum.
“ We believe that live performance is inspiring, ” she said.
“ There is no better sight than seeing Baum Walker Hall filled with children, ” said Terri Trotter, vice president of external affairs for the center.
Currently, there are 11 public or private schools in Fayetteville, Bentonville and Siloam Springs that are recognized as 100 Percent Schools participants.
Schools in Fayetteville include Butterfield Trail Elementary, Holcomb Elementary, Washington Elementary and Root Elementary, plus The New School and St. Joseph’s Catholic School.
Washington Principal Ashley Garcia said attending the events benefits the students by providing them with more cultural opportunities.
“ I like to think of the Walton Arts Center as an extended classroom, ” she said.
Bentonville schools include Elm Tree Elementary, R. E. Baker Elementary and the private Walnut Farm Montessori School.
Siloam Springs schools include Allen Elementary, Northside Elementary and Southside Elementary.
R. E. Baker Elementary Principal Matt Young said even though a trip to the Walton Arts Center is a longer drive for his school than Fayetteville schools, it is worth the effort.
“ We’re just glad to have the opportunity, ” he said.
Young noted that at the elementary level, part of the educators’ mission is developing good habits for students.
“ One of those habits that needs to be developed is an appreciation for the arts, ” he said.
