INDIANAPOLIS — Weeks into the school year, some IPS students are enjoying a different way of learning. It's a new performance arts curriculum at James Whitcomb Riley School 43.
"It was just an offering to expand what we already have here with our core classes but to provide a way for kids to be engaged in learning," principal Crishell Sam said.
This year, IPS spent $5.5 million dollars on renovations for School 43 to improve visual and performing arts. This is part of the district's Rebuilding Stronger referendum.
When students walked in on the first day, they stepped into a new dance studio, orchestra room, theater and stage. Sam said students have already found unique ways to express themselves this year.
"When students have an opportunity to select what it is they want to do, we know it brings them pride," she said.
The school still has a traditional curriculum as younger students get to explore the performance classes. Once they are in fourth grade, they can pick two arts they want to specialize in.
School leaders tell 13News the reason they created these spaces is to give students resources they may not have had in their neighborhoods.
"What we see and what we feel in this space from our students is truly joy and excellence," she said. "Everyone is engaged in the arts and everyone is finding ways to explore and showcase their creativity."
One fourth grader told us, she found a love of dance and music this year.
"They make me feel creative and confident," she said.
Confidence, school leaders hope every student feels in this curriculum.
