South Pasadena Unified School District Arts Receives Los Angeles County Arts Advancement Grant

In recognition of South Pasadena Unified School District’s (SPUSD) commitment to student learning in the arts, the Los Angeles (LA) County Department of Arts and Culture has awarded the District a matching grant of $18,400. This grant helps school districts advance the quality, quantity, and equitable distribution of arts instruction in schools.

The grant funding is slated to support the distinguished and growing South Pasadena Middle School (SPMS) Music program. The Music program will purchase string instruments in various ½, ¾, and full sizes to accommodate students of all sizes and also will purchase double-reed and brass instruments to give band students the opportunity to explore a variety of instruments. SPMS Orchestra and Band have grown exponentially and now will be able to offer middle school musicians access to the highest quality equipment.

The LA County Arts Ed Collective coordinates the countywide effort to ensure that all students receive quality arts instruction. Since 2016, SPUSD has been fortunate to receive grants from this organization. Over the years, this particular Arts Advancement Grant has helped fund arts professional development and discipline specific conferences, art and music supplies and equipment, digital portfolio technology, musical instruments, the creation of the SPUSD Arts pathway and continuum documents, arts coordination activities, and a newly designed/enhanced SPUSD Arts website.

The SPUSD Arts website showcases the impressive visual and performing arts offerings in our District. On this site you can learn more about SPUSD faculty and course offerings, read the arts continuum/pathway documents, and view the achievements of arts students and alumni. This site was created with incredible guidance from community members, teachers, administrators, and parents on the SPUSD Arts Committee. SPUSD is grateful for the continued support from the LA County Arts Ed Collective for our talented students and faculty.

For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, scarroll@spusd.net

South Pasadena Unified School District, 1020 El Centro St., South Pasadena, (626) 441-5810 or visit www.spusd.net.