The mission of Elements of Education (formerly know as Tacoma School of the Arts Partners) is to engage creative thinking and increase learning in public schools by addressing the achievement gap through quality experiences that connect classroom learning with the world at large.
Our programs support community-centered schools actively delivering relevant education and learning objectives. Initially, we provided funds for the "Adjunct Artist/Instructor" program at the Tacoma School of the Arts in 2002. In 2007, we launched "Connections" by scheduling community gatherings of parents and community members to discuss issues about learning and the school. 2008 marked the inauguration of "Bridges" that increased academic success through an all-inclusive peer-tutoring program contained within the school day. In partnership with Metro Parks since 2005, we facilitate the areas community Metro Arts program.
Our support provided the capacity for Tacoma’s first public arts focused high school to create a model-learning program located in proximity to community cultural institutions. With an annual graduation rate of 96%, and with 80% of SOTA students going on to post-secondary education, we feel that we have hit the mark for key educational strategies: understanding our population’s needs, utilizing community resources, building relationships and creating capacity for reflective practice.
We facilitate a broad range of community involvement opportunities that partners school and community resources within our city. We make high quality art and technology classes available to all students in our school district. We serve as the credit granting school for the free college readiness classes taught to at-risk students through Peace Community Center in Tacoma’s Hilltop area. We give all kids access to highly qualified working artists and professionals by placing them in classrooms teaching 21st century skills that integrate creativity with technology.
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