During a recent meeting of the Monrovia Unified School District Board, Patrick Garcia presented an enthusiastic overview of the district's visual and performing arts programs, highlighting significant achievements and future initiatives aimed at enriching student engagement in the arts.

Garcia emphasized the importance of community partnerships, which provide essential support for various arts programs, including field trips, performances, and funding. He proudly announced that all 1,566 students in grades TK to 3 are now participating in general music classes, with plans to introduce recorders for third graders to enhance their musical education.

The after-school music programs have also seen a surge in participation, with approximately 200 students involved in band, strings, and choir. Garcia noted the success of Monrovia High School's music programs, which recently achieved high rankings at a national competition, showcasing the talent and dedication of the students and teachers involved.

The presentation also highlighted upcoming events, including the first-ever Hispanic Heritage Art Festival scheduled for September 18, aimed at celebrating the artistic contributions of 4th and 5th graders across the district. Additionally, Garcia discussed the integration of arts into the curriculum through partnerships with the Los Angeles County Office of Education, which enhances learning in subjects like math and science through creative expression.

Board members expressed their support for the arts initiatives, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and community involvement in fostering a vibrant arts culture within the schools. They acknowledged the need for continued efforts to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to participate in these enriching programs.

In a subsequent presentation, Dr. Francois provided a recap of the district's summer school program, which served over 1,300 students with a focus on intervention, enrichment, and credit recovery. The program was praised for its engaging curriculum and the positive impact it had on student learning and social-emotional development.

Overall, the meeting underscored Monrovia Unified School District's commitment to providing robust arts education and summer learning opportunities, fostering a creative and supportive environment for all students.