KID smART Expands Board to Enhance Arts Education in New Orleans

News Summary

KID smART in New Orleans is expanding its board by adding four new members, aiming to strengthen arts-rich education for children. This move aligns with their goal to reach more students and integrate the arts into learning. Meanwhile, the Child Care Association of Louisiana has elected new leadership. The 11th Annual ART JAM festival on September 14 promises family-friendly activities and engaging workshops, while KID smART expands its arts programs, impacting over 1,500 students in the upcoming school year.

Exciting Developments for KID smART in New Orleans!

New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and, of course, a love for the arts. A big name in the local arts education scene, KID smART, is making headlines with some fantastic news for the upcoming school year! The nonprofit organization is expanding its board of directors by adding four new members, which is sure to boost its efforts in promoting arts-rich education for children. This exciting expansion aligns with KID smART’s goal to integrate the arts into education and reach even more students in the area.

Meet the New Board Members

Who are these fresh faces joining the KID smART board? Let’s take a look:

• Seth Levine: A partner at Jones Walker, Seth specializes in the petrochemical and energy industries, bringing valuable insights from the corporate world.
• Jeremy Jones: As the executive vice president and head of specialty lending at Hancock Whitney Bank, Jeremy is all about the finances and finding new ways to support educational programs.
• Keshara Powell: A bright student at the International High School of New Orleans, Keshara has hands-on experience thanks to the Bloomberg Arts Internship program, representing the voice of young learners.
• Dr. Erin Hymel: The owner of Dentistry with Heart, Dr. Hymel is also a clinical assistant professor at the LSU Health Sciences Center and will help bridge the gap between health and education.

These new board members will help lead KID smART as they foster creativity and learning through the arts!

Leadership Updates in the Child Care Association

Additionally, the Child Care Association of Louisiana is also gearing up for change! Tara Emery, who owns and directs the London Bridge Early Learning Centers, has been elected president. Alongside her, Stacey Byes-Byarse—also lovingly known as “Coach Stacey B”—is stepping into the role of vice president. She is an impressive entrepreneur who founded multiple learning academies in New Orleans and Jefferson Parish. Rounding out this leadership team is Jennifer Stevenson, who owns The Garden of Knowledge in Washington Parish and will serve as the secretary.

Mark Your Calendars for the 11th Annual ART JAM

Circle the date on your calendars—the 11th annual ART JAM festival is coming soon! It’s set for Saturday, September 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Andre Cailloux Center for Performing Arts and Cultural Justice. This free, family-friendly festival is not one to miss!

At ART JAM, attendees can look forward to a day brimming with hands-on activities, dazzling live performances, and engaging arts-based workshops. KID smART is teaming up with local artists and organizations to create a rich experience that truly celebrates the value of arts in education.

Impacting Over 1,500 Children

For the 2023-2024 school year, KID smART is proud to announce that it will expand its arts integration programs to encompass 10 elementary and middle schools and three high schools, positively impacting more than 1,500 children in the area. Since its founding in 1999, the organization has served over 63,000 students and supported more than 11,000 teachers in their quest to enrich the educational experience through the arts.

Educators have reported noticeable improvements in student confidence and learning outcomes through KID smART’s programs, proving just how essential arts integration is for educational success, especially for underserved and exceptional learners.

Activities Galore at ART JAM

So, what can families expect at the ART JAM festival? Activities will include gardening workshops, mask-making sessions, and opportunities to create clay artworks. Not to mention, there will be delicious food and drink options available from local Bayou Road vendors. The Sunstone Project will also be distributing free books, ensuring that kids can take home a piece of the learning adventure.

KID smART encourages community involvement and support through its events. So grab your family, invite your friends, and head on over to ART JAM for a day of creativity and fun!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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