.... Developing creativity and talent in an academically supportive environment

Your child's ticket to

• higher academic achievement
• creative expression through technology
• active involvement in the performing and visual arts

The Mission

The mission of Smith Renaissance School of the Arts is to develop each student's abilities through exposure to the arts, as a means to higher academic achievement and personal development. The school is committed to giving each student learning skills that can be used in everyday life, while increasing each student's appreciation for cultural experiences. Only through the combined efforts of educators, parents, students, and the community can this type of quality education be achieved.

The Program

Smith Renaissance School of the Arts provides a creative learning environment for children age four through fifth grade. The school's strong academic curriculum is designed around a performing and visual arts theme. Students explore and develop their interests in drama, dance, vocal and instrumental music, and art.

Students from Early Childhood Education (ECE) through third grade participate in exploratory programs in each of the arts. Fourth and fifth grade students have more intensive opportunities to develop their areas of choice, while continuing to be exposed to other areas. Off-site learning opportunities offer "hands-on" tours of television and radio stations, graphic and design production companies, and art galleries. Visiting artists add a real-world dimension to students' learning.

Quality

Smith offers a quality academic program designed to ensure that all students meet district, state, and local educational achievement standards. It is one of a select group of schools accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

Technology

State-of-the-art technologies facilitate learning at Smith. The school has Internet capability in each classroom, as well as a fully-equipped computer lab. A Yamaha piano lab accommodates up to 30 students at a time.

Special Programs

With a diverse student body, the school strives to meet the individual needs of its students through personalized learning and a variety of specialized programs. Support programs include Bilingual Education, English as a Second Language, Special Education, and a Challenge Program for gifted and talented students.

Partnerships

School partnerships form a rich addition to students' classroom experience. Organizations that provide support to Smith include Denver School of the Arts, KDKO Radio, Colorado Children's Chorale, Ready to Succeed, Shaka Foundation, Greater Park Hill Community, Inc., University of Denver, and Renaissance Hotel.

VISUAL ARTS

Students may express their ideas through a variety of art media. The emphasis is on critiquing and exhibiting student work.

DRAMA

Oral interpretation, staging, improvisation, and character development are taught in both group and individual settings.

MUSIC

Basic concepts and skills are taught for both VOCAL and INSTRUMENTAL music. In 3rd grade, students explore instruments, then focus on their choices in 4th and 5th grades. They may sing in school choirs and the Colorado Children's Chorale.

DANCE

A creative approach to dance encourages students to express themselves through movement while developing self-awareness, motivation, and discipline.

ACADEMICS

A strong core program of reading, language arts, math, science, health, social studies and more is presented with an arts perspective.