Bates Middle School has once again found itself in the national spotlight by being named the Arts Integration Award winner by the Arts Schools Network (ASN).
The award is presented to a school that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the incorporation of arts integration strategies into its curriculum. ASN is the nation’s largest professional membership organization of specialized arts schools. Its mission is to provide leaders in arts schools with quality resources, support, and networking opportunities.
“This is an incredible honor not only for Bates, but for the entire school system,” Interim Superintendent Mamie J. Perkins said. “Bates was the pioneer in terms of performing and visual arts education in this county, and it continues to offer students world-class opportunities and experiences.”
Arts integration strategies were first introduced at Bates in 2007 as part of the efforts to enhance instruction and provide students with more pathways to success. It was the county’s first middle school Performing and Visual Arts magnet program, and its success led to a second PVA magnet program, at Brooklyn Park Middle School, and a high school magnet program now in place at Annapolis and Broadneck high schools.
Bates will receive its award during the annual Arts Schools Network Conference in Colorado in October.
For more information, visit www.artsschoolsnetwork.org.