SmART Schools: Vermont

The twin goals of the SmART Schools program are to strengthen the place of the arts as a core academic subject and to strengthen the use of high-quality, standards-based arts in other academic subjects. This two- year grant allows FSC to fully implement the SmART program in three Vermont schools, located in three different Vermont regions. The SmART Schools model has been proven to increase students’: (1) ability to create, perform, and respond to the arts; (2) achievement on statewide assessments of reading, writing, and mathematical problem-solving; (3) motivation and active engagement in school; and (4) self-confidence. These expected outcomes will be measured in the three Vermont schools by assessing student work and performances using carefully defined rubrics; comparing achievement gains on statewide assessments in partner and comparison schools; collecting and analyzing teacher survey data; and conducting student interviews and focus groups.