At the Franciscan School, the arts are a vital piece of our community culture. From elementary school through middle school, students are invited to explore creativity as a way to understand themselves and engage with the world around them. Whether through music, visual art, writing, or drama, the arts at TFS help shape our community into what it is today.

This spirit comes alive each year through one of our newest traditions, Celebration of the Arts. This event reflects the richness and diversity of artistic learning at TFS. While we have long held an art show, this new event has provided an immersive, school wide celebration that brings together all of the arts at TFS. “These events give each discipline a chance to showcase some of the wonderful educational experiences happening in the classrooms,” shares Music Teacher Jameson White.

Even more so, Celebration of the Arts highlights what the arts make possible. Younger students experiment with instruments and storytelling, and older students collaborate in music groups, contribute original writing, take part in dynamic performances, and display art pieces.

Each of these elements shows both individual growth and collective effort. Modeling this collective effort, teachers, administrators, and families collaborate closely to bring the event to life. “The HSA has a committee of parents who help organize and fund the entire event in coordination with the teachers and Principal Smith,” shares Art Teacher Elana Harriss. When you attend the event, you’ll get a sense of connection around every corner, experiencing an atmosphere that’s inviting and celebratory.

You’ll see classrooms transform into galleries and performance spaces, and interactive experiences beautifully display creativity. The middle ensemble, composed of orchestral, band, and percussion instruments, will be highlighted, and the 3rd and 5th grades will have small ensembles focusing on recorders and a combination of general and ensemble instruments. Paintings, drawings, and writing/poetic elements will engage parents and students alike.

Some new features this year will include: a glow room (the technology lab will be an immersive art experience of fluorescent art); Lemoncello actors will be in costume, greeting people in Jacoba; and drama Troupe members will have a face painting station set up for any student to have their face painted by our actors.

In the end, the Celebration of the Arts event is a reflection of who the TFS community strives to be. It honors creativity as a cornerstone of learning and builds a culture that is vibrant and inclusive.

You won’t want to miss it. See you on Thursday, April 23, from 4:00-6:00 pm!