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.