What is NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY (NASD)?
NASD is one day set aside in the school year for administrators and teachers to incorporate creative arts into the school day--stimulating creative thinking, encouraging innovation and heightening self-esteem. Schools can present creative curricula or special activities such as a visiting artist workshop, a concert, a video presentation, a student art exhibit, a movie screening or even a performance of a play or musical. The day can be as ambitious as teachers and administrators choose to make it.

Why was a NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY created?
NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY was created to give children nationwide the opportunity to experience and be personally inspired by all kinds of creative arts - at school.  NASD brings attention to the importance of art in the education of our children.  Art in school is about having fun, exploring different ways to learn, and opening up the creativity in each child.  

Who created NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY?
The Port Chester Council for the Arts (PCCFA), with a history of innovation in the arts and arts education, created NASD.

Why the Port Chester Council for the Arts?
Since 1981, the Port Chester Council for the Arts has been a trendsetter establishing after school arts programs on-site at elementary schools in Port Chester, N.Y., creating a summer arts camp, providing on-site senior arts workshops, piloting an all-day kindergarten program, creating K-5 literacy-based artist residencies, and producing annual theatre productions for children, teens and adults. It is committed to providing high quality, innovative programs that build and encourage cooperation and community through artistic experience, and inspiring an appreciation of creative expression and new ways of thinking.

How much does it cost?
NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY is free. There are no participation fees or added costs.

How do schools and teachers participate?
You can download free lesson plans, ideas for special arts-based school events, and other information about NASD. Teachers and administrators are encouraged to add their own programs to the website.

Where is the first NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY taking place?
The Port Chester School District, located in Westchester County, New York, will be the first school system in the nation to participate in this pilot program. Port Chester's four elementary schools, middle school and high school will all participate.

How does NATIONAL ARTS IN THE SCHOOL DAY work?
One day every year, all public and private schools in America are encouraged to incorporate the arts into their classes, Kindergarten through 12th grade.  This day can be as ambitious or as modest as each school chooses to make it.  Our site includes detailed curriculum suggestions, creative ideas and resources.  In this year's participating schools, classroom teachers at all grade levels will lead arts-based lessons in all curriculum areas, and professional artists will engage students in arts-related projects.  In addition, guest artists are invited to participate in the school day through presentations and seminars.  Teachers and students can work together to pick an arts focus for their class.

Where can I learn more?
Send us a message using our, "Contact Us" e-mail form.