AMP: Artists' Meeting Place and Resource Collective

CAC - New Residency Grant Program, Artists in Schools

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Artists in Schools--New Residency Grant Program from the California Arts Council

The California Arts Council is pleased to announce "Artists in Schools," a program designed to support artists in residency activities that take place in schools, both in the classroom and in after-school settings.

"The California Arts Council is dedicated to supporting arts education in California schools," said Muriel Johnson, Director of the California Arts Council. "The Governor and Legislature slated education funding specifically for visual and performing arts, and it is important that children work with experienced artists to augment the day-to-day instruction. The "Artists in Schools" program helps bring professionals to the school setting."

The intent of the new Artists in Schools program is to integrate community arts resources--artists and professional art organizations--into a comprehensive, standards-based program that underscores the critical role that the arts play in shaping a student's overall well being and academic achievement. Governor Schwarzenegger and the California State Legislature agreed in June to budget $105 million in ongoing education funds for the visual and performing arts in public schools K-12, and a one-time allotment of $500 million for equipment and supplies for arts and physical education for fiscal year 2006-07.

Applications are available at http://www.cac.ca.gov/files/AIS%20Application.doc. California arts organizations of all disciplines may apply. All residencies require matching funds from the arts organization, or jointly by the arts organization and the school. Applications must be postmarked by November 17, 2006.

The California Arts Council's 2005-2006 strategic planning process reaffirmed the agency's commitment to arts in education and the importance of sequential arts instruction in California schools. The resulting plan, which will guide the Council's efforts for the next three to five years, outlines a program direction that ensures that at least 50 percent of program funds is allocated in support of arts in education priorities.

The Artists in Schools program is supported by proceeds from the sale of the Arts License Plate, a specialty plate designed by noted California artist Wayne Thiebaud to support arts education and local arts programming. Members of the press requesting more information on Artists in Schools, the California Arts Council's Strategic Plan, or the California Arts License Plate may contact Mary Beth Barber at (916) 322-6588 or mbarber@caartscouncil.com. Specific questions regarding the Artists in Schools grant may be addressed to kmargolis@caartscouncil.com.