The North Tonawanda City School District's faculty of fine arts welcomed students to school and wished everyone a year of smARTS. Director of fine arts Dean Vallas said the Board of Education and superintendent have made new strides to foster fine arts in the district. The most noticeable being the construction of a full-time Fine Arts Center at North Tonawanda High School. The old gymatorium will be replaced with a state-of-the-art center that will feature both visual and performing arts. The new facility will open later this fall.
New arts facilities were also added to the middle school and many classrooms were remodeled to give students greater opportunities to explore the arts. In addition to physical changes, the district has restored valuable arts programs.
First, visual art classes are now scheduled for all elementary students. This brings back the K-1 classes that start the creative lives of kids. Also restored to the curriculum is the fourth grade instrumental program.
Students at the new North Tonawanda Intermediate School will now be able to begin playing an instrument in fourth grade.
Vallas said, "It is an exciting time for our district and fine arts. There will be many opportunities for students to further their creativity and excel in the arts."
Information about fine arts in North Tonawanda can be seen on the fine arts page on the district's website at NTschools.org.
