The Fine & Performing Arts Department, which consists of approximately thirty-one certified art teachers, thirty-five certified music teachers, and one full-time administrative coordinator, develops and maintains music and art programs for more than 11,600 students.
Our arts educators have used the New York State Education Department’s publication, “Learning Standards for the Arts,” to revise and finalize curriculum documents for Chorus, General, and Instrumental Music courses and for all Fine Arts courses.
Students participating in the Department’s comprehensive, sequential, instructional programs, will acquire knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the artistic, cultural, and intellectual accomplishments of our civilizations while developing skills to express personal artistic and musical talents.
Through the sixth grade, students meet with a certified art and music specialist for two 40-minute periods of instruction in each six-day cycle.Seventh and eighth grade students meet with art and music specialists for ten weeks for each subject each year.
Large group choral experiences begin in the fourth grade.Instrumental lessons and ensembles begin in the fifth grade.
High school courses have been developed to meet the Regents graduation requirements.They provide creative experiences for the serious artist/musician as well as for the novice.
The basic foundation course in art, Studio-in-Art, is offered with concentrations in ceramics, photomedia, fine arts, and three-dimensional design.
Students interested in music may enroll in courses that develop performance skills, musical knowledge and appreciation.
Advanced courses in art and music are available in each area for those interested in completing a major sequence.Advanced Placement courses are offered in Music Theory, Studio Art, and Art History.
Students may also develop their artistic and musical talents through involvement in the numerous before or after school activities that are offered at the elementary through the secondary levels.These include theater groups, jazz ensembles, literary and art clubs, a marching band, select choruses, talent shows, and art and music festivals.
The dedication and talents of the teaching staff, as well as the quality of the instructional programs, are reflected in the accomplishments of our students.In local, state, regional and national evaluation festivals, exhibits and competitions, they consistently receive high honors and awards.
