Half Day School students have the chance Explore the Arts thanks to PTO

On Wednesday, March 4, third- and fourth-grade students at Half Day School in Lincolnshire spent the afternoon immersed in Explore the Arts Day.

Students had the opportunity to participate in grade-level assemblies with performers from Be The Groove Rhythmic Performance Ensemble. The ensemble's goal is "to motivate the development of teamwork and individual self-confidence through the language of rhythm and dance."

In addition to the assembly, each student also participated in two workshops in the areas of art, music, dance/movement, and/or drama.

Half Day School Principal Jill Mau looked forward to this unique learning experience for the students all year.

"A special thank you for the organizational efforts of our District 103 PTO's Explore the Arts coordinators: Lisa Lewis, Carrie Giddings and Caroline Cleveland," Mau said.

"They have secured the artists, presenters and numerous parent volunteers who have been collaborating to ensure a fun and successful learning experience. Half Day School's art teacher Kerry Sweet, music teachers Ashley Franz and Steven Turini, and school office staff have been invaluable in supporting the coordinators to make March 4 an extra special day of learning and exploring the arts."

This is a unique program that the District 103 Parent Teacher Organization made possible to expose young students to a variety of age-appropriate fine arts experiences.

The program extends the fine arts curriculum for District 103 students and rotates annually between Laura B. Sprague, Half Day and Daniel Wright junior high schools. The program is organized and implemented through the District 103 PTO.