When people think of strong STEM schools, they do not normally have in mind performing arts classes where 4th grade students act out Shakespearean plays, visual arts projects that drive students to use art as a vehicle for social activism and music instruction that explores the science of sound. At BASIS Independent Schools, a powerful combination occurs when a strong STEM and Liberal Arts curriculum features Fine Arts as a connector.
In preschool and Kindergarten, arts immersion is carefully designed to encourage a child’s natural curiosity to question, to create, and to discover. In Primary Years, all students take Music, Visual Arts, and Performance Arts instruction to expose children to new ways of seeing the world, help them gain appreciation for the arts, and develop critical thinking skills. Fine Arts courses explore themes of cultural and historical relevance. These themes are connected to civic engagement and support the student’s social and emotional development.
One critical tenet of BASIS Independent Schools is to seek out teachers who are experts in their field who bring enthusiasm for what they teach. Professional actors, conductors, jazz musicians, trained painters, and designers bring an infectious passion to their students. It is that excitement about learning everything from engineering to the arts that is truly indicative of BASIS Independent students.
“Having professional connections and experiences as an actor helps me keep my finger on the pulse of the theatre world in New York City,” said Ms. Elizabeth Simmons, BASIS Independent Brooklyn Performing Arts Subject Expert Teacher. “I bring my experiences back to the students, whether it be a new take on a classic play, a new skill like stage combat, or a voice/movement technique that helps young actors grow.”
BASIS Independent Manhattan, K-8 private school, opens fall 2017. Visit the website for upcoming tours and events.
