Growing Up in the Arts
Every child deserves access to the arts. Growing Up in the Arts, an award-winning Arts Education program of the Springfield Regional Arts Council (SRAC), was created with that in mind. This initiative brings high-quality, immersive arts experiences directly to kids at after-school programs, community organizations and virtually across 27 surrounding communities, ensuring that all children—regardless of background—can create, express and grow through the arts.
What We Do
SRAC employs a team of professional teaching artists who specialize in various disciplines, providing hands-on, engaging arts education experiences for students in grades K-8. Our teaching artists deliver high-quality instruction in:
Visual Arts – Painting, sculpture, pottery, fiber arts and mixed media
Performance & Theatre – Storytelling, musical theatre and improvisation
Movement & Dance – Ballet, cultural dance and creative movement
Media Arts – Filmmaking, photography and digital storytelling
Through this program, students participate in interactive workshops, live performances, gallery visits and concerts that ignite creativity and deepen their connection to the arts.
Why It Matters
The arts are more than just creative outlets—they build confidence, strengthen critical thinking and enhance literacy and communication skills. Our curriculum is designed to:
Align with classroom learning through arts-integrated education
Encourage cultural awareness and creative problem-solving
Foster academic confidence and self-expression
Provide opportunities for students to showcase their work
Who We Serve
Growing Up in the Arts is proud to collaborate with local schools and organizations, including:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield
Harmony House
Ujima Language & Literacy Camp
Local schools & community centers
From hands-on clay work and filmmaking to dance and mural projects, students don’t just learn about the arts—they become artists, creators and storytellers in their own right.
