Arts education plays a direct role in how students learn core subjects at Sonora Elementary School. From reading and writing to math and science, the arts are employed to help students build understanding and strengthen academic abilities.

“When students engage in music, visual arts, drama, or dance, they practice skills like pattern recognition, memory, sequencing, and spatial reasoning,” said Principal Mia Doidge. “Those are all skills that connect directly to academic learning.” 

In the classroom, that connection is clear. Teachers use art to help students process and explain what they are learning. Second-graders in teacher Amy Lewis’ classroom draw math problems, act out stories, and build models to show their thinking. “When we use art, my students are more excited and ready to learn,” she said. “It makes learning fun.” She has also seen students improve their communication and problem-solving skills as they collaborate on creative projects.

Christina Selstad said giving her sixth-grade students choices in how they apply what they know leads to stronger learning. Whether students write, create artwork, or lead a lesson, they are practicing the same academic skills in ways that make sense to them. “It gives them a different outlet to demonstrate what they’ve learned of concepts across the curriculum,” she said, adding that this approach helps students take more ownership of their learning and builds confidence that carries into other subjects.

Music teacher Nicholas St. Royal sees the same academic benefits through performance. In his classroom, students demonstrate understanding by playing instruments and working together in groups. “There is less individual instruction and more group-focused, ensemble learning,” he said. “It helps engage learners of various levels.” He added that this collaboration strengthens students' listening and communication skills.

This approach is especially important for students who struggle in traditional settings. Ms. Doidge said conventional measures like reading and writing do not always capture a student’s full breadth of knowledge. “A student can show their understanding of a concept through a model, drawing, performance, or musical piece,” she said. “Students who may feel discouraged by academics often become more motivated when learning is hands-on, visual, or movement-based.”

One of Mr. St. Royal’s students struggles to articulate with words, but he can perform complex music on the violin. “I find students who have challenges answering a question due to shyness or language barriers can do so through performing on their instrument,” he explained. 

Beyond academic content, the arts help build skills that support success in every subject. Ms. Selstad said the arts create a learning environment where students are more willing to take academic risks. “There isn’t always a single correct answer,” she said. “Students feel more comfortable experimenting, making mistakes, and trying again.” That mindset helps students persist through challenges in other areas, including reading and math.

Sonora’s Eagles have many opportunities to apply these skills through music, visual arts, and theater, both during the school day and in after-school programs. They also share their learning through concerts, the annual school musical, and weekly Eagle Rally performances, allowing their families to see their learning in action.

“The early years of school are a great opportunity for exposure to the arts and building the skills, confidence, and curiosity that support learning,” said Ms. Doidge.

At Sonora Elementary, the journey is just beginning. This integrated approach to the arts creates a bridge to the advanced programs awaiting students in middle and high school. The ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and approach problems in different ways is all strengthened through the arts.