District Visual and Performing Arts Programs to Resume as Usual for the Start of the 2020-21 School Year
Because of the vital role that the Arts play in supporting students’ social-emotional health, the Washington Township Public Schools will be offering a full schedule of visual and performing arts courses at all levels of learning, while implementing safety guidelines that have been developed by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and Arts Ed NJ.
“With the current environment surrounding our return to school, we are even more committed to maintaining a successful arts education program for all students in Washington Township,” District Visual and Performing Arts Supervisor Casey Corigliano said. “Our overall goal is to approach this year with as close to a ‘business as usual’ mindset as possible. We likely will be adjusting how we accomplish our events and learning activities, but what we do and what we learn will remain intact.”
Corigliano assures that students, whether hybrid or remote, will have opportunities to engage in a variety of aesthetic and academic experiences that encourage creativity, innovation and collaboration.
“Our talented and dedicated arts educators has been working throughout the summer, following the latest guidance and adjusting the way we run our programs,’ Corigliano said. “Upon the start of school, staff members will be highlighting procedures and expectations for their respective courses. Regardless of whether a student participates in-person or remotely, the experiences will be extremely similar. As an example, we will be utilizing synchronous instruction for our remote students to supplement the in-person experience. Additionally, we will be providing opportunities for remote students to pick-up and drop-off arts supplies and projects as needed. Finally, we will be planning for virtual performances and art shows, while carrying the hope that these important experiences will be hosted in a live format later in the school year.”
Families are encouraged to visit the Department’s website for additional information and updates throughout the year.