The Visual and Performing Arts Department oversees the visual art, music, theatre, and dance programs of Marion County Public Schools. The Fine Arts are an essential part off the K-12 academic curriculum and a critical component of every child's education. The Fine Arts are academic subjects that also promote social and emotional development and civic engagement. The arts serve as a creative outlet that connects students to a larger world.
Music, visual arts, theatre, and dance each contribute a great deal to the development of a variety of skills by students. There is a direct correlation between the arts and cognitive ability, critical thinking, and verbal skills. With their strong emphasis on team building and self-reflection, the arts ignite students' interest in learning through collaboration, while fostering creativity and communication.
Every elementary and secondary school in Marion County has a full time art and music educator. Our secondary schools also offer a variety of other performing arts courses. We currently have an arts magnet school at each level: Madison Street Academy (K-5), Howard Middle School (6-8), and West Port High School MCCA Program (9-12).