At MPUSD we have aimed to provide a variety of arts experiences for our students for a long time. We have music teachers at all our Elementary, Middle and High Schools, TK - 12th. We have art teachers at four elementary schools, plus two elementaries have art teaching residencies. And all our middle and high schools have art classes as well.
Proposition 28 has helped us to expand into some of our gaps in arts education. We have contracted with a company that provides music lessons specific for preschool ages at each of our three preschools. We have contracted with another company who specializes in teaching art to special needs students of all ages, including in our special ed preschool classrooms and at our Adult School. Our alternative high school has students with very specific needs. We are using the funds allotted to that school, in addition to two part-time art teachers, to tailor to those needs, including musical instrument classes to students with physical limitations.
We know that the engagement of the arts keeps students' attendance high, and keeps parents, guardians and the community actively involved. Keeping students engaged keeps them on track to expanding their ability to communicate, from English learners and those that are proficient. The focus exercised in our visual and performing arts classes translates to greater abilities for students to focus on other subjects such as math. Expanding our visual and performing arts offerings helps us reach educational goals including better attendance, increased family involvement and improved student educational focus in general.