school based programs

Creative Schools

The Creative Schools Program of the Massachusetts Cultural Council is a state funded grant program that began in 2000 to promote better educational practices in the Arts, Sciences and Humanities. \It supports artist and scientist residencies, curriculum development and staff development. The objectives of Creative Schools Program are the same as those driving the Flying Cloud Institute’s work in the schools. Over the past eight years Flying Cloud has partnered with the Southern Berkshire Regional Schools in this program by working with staff and administration to conceive each project, writing the successful grant proposals, and coordinating the interdisciplinary projects.

Grants have ranged from $16,000 to $22,000 per year and have funded artist residencies, scientist consultancies, curriculum development and staff development. Particular focus has been on using the arts to teach science and math as well as the development of an extensive environmental education program in the District. The project for 2008-2010 “Integrating Science and Art into Math Instruction grades K-12” is funded at $21,920. Synergy Learning will be leading a team of teachers and administration in this two year staff development and curriculum development project. Retreats will be held at Flying Cloud Institute.