Extended Cultural Experience

Harris Elementary School

This program will be used to extend Harris student's cultural experiences. Funds will be used to off set cost for students to attend events that support and/or compliment the Arts, school curriculum, or cultural enrichment. This may include but is not limited to transportation cost, event fees, or school wide presentations. A committee of Harris staff will review request for use of funds. The staff will develop general criteria for request. The committee will also provide opportunities open to all Harris Students. Students would have the opportunity to enjoy extended cultural experiences that otherwise they may not due to cost factor and resource limitations.

Why is this project important?

Although Harris has some experiences and events already scheduled, the funding for extra opportunities has been cut to the point where they are almost nonexistent. This program would give our students some of the same opportunities students had in years past. Students may attend museums, art exhibits, dramas, or natural cycles within nature (Salmon Runs, Forest and Vegetation identification). It is a program that will be able to reach our entire student body and provide a positive experience for them.

Who and how many will be served?

The entire student body at Harris would be served. The committee would develop opportunities for each elementary level so entire school may be served.

How will you evaluate the success of the program?

The success of the program will be based on surveys and feedback from students, parents and staff. A part of the criteria piece would include some type of provision that correlates the program experience with school curriculum or cultural awareness.

Does this proposal build upon existing programs at your school?

Yes, we would want each experience to supplement or re-enforce our school curriculum and/or the Arts and cultural enrichment. Research supports the notion that academics coupled with Art and cultural experiences increases student school success. It is also shown this partnership increases student sense of school belonging. If a student feels connected to the school, she/he will increase their chances to succeed.

How will funds be spent?

Transportation, cultural assembly, cultural arts, curriculum field trip fees, program materials and supplies