District to Participate in New York State Department of Education’s Individual Arts Assessment Pathway program
Riverhead Central School District is set to provide its students with a new pathway to graduation through arts education. Jason Rottkamp, the district’s director of fine arts, recently announced at a Board of Education meeting that Riverhead would be participating in the New York State Department of Education’s Individual Arts Assessment Pathway program. This initiative aims to offer students a well-rounded arts education and provide them with opportunities for analysis and reflection. The district has formed a committee to develop guidelines for students to complete this pathway, with plans to pilot the program in September 2024.
Expanding Arts Education Opportunities:
Riverhead Central School District has a robust fine arts and music curriculum that spans from kindergarten through 12th grade. Students in kindergarten through sixth grade receive general music instruction, band, chorus, and orchestra lessons and rehearsals. In grades 7 and 8, students continue with these programs and have the option to join extracurricular activities such as wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, chamber orchestra, chamber choir, show choir, the drama club, world drumming, and the Summer Fine and Performing Arts Academy.
At the high school level, students have the opportunity to take music theory and Advanced Placement music theory courses, as well as to Theater Production and Performance. In addition to band, chorus, and orchestra lessons and rehearsals, various extracurricular activities are available, including music ensembles, the drama club, pit orchestra, pep band, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and the Summer Fine and Performing Arts Academy.
The Three-Class Approach:
Riverhead Central School District will be implementing what is known as a “three-class” approach as part of the Individual Arts Assessment Pathway program. While not necessarily sequential, these three classes will have specific goals in mind to help students develop their artistic skills and knowledge. The district’s committee, responsible for implementing the program, will work on creating guidelines to ensure students can successfully complete the pathway and graduate through the arts.
Moving Forward:
The district’s goal is to pilot the program with a small group of students in September 2024 and then expand it to include more students in 2025. Riverhead Central School District is one of many districts across the state participating in this pilot program. Mr. Rottkamp emphasized the district’s commitment to providing a comprehensive arts education and expressed gratitude for the community and board’s support.
Conclusion:
The Riverhead Central School District’s participation in the New York State Department of Education’s Individual Arts Assessment Pathway program demonstrates its dedication to offering students a well-rounded education that includes the arts. By implementing a three-class approach and forming a committee to develop guidelines, the district aims to provide students with opportunities for artistic growth and reflection. As the program is piloted and expanded, more students will have the chance to pursue their passion for the arts and graduate through this innovative pathway.
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