Four PCSD Elementary Teachers Awarded Arts Integration Endorsement

Four elementary school teachers earned their Arts Integration Endorsement through the BYU ARTS Partnership. This prestigious recognition comes after two years of rigorous training, including weekly classes during the academic year and intensive summer courses.

The endorsement program enhances teaching methods by integrating various art forms into daily classroom activities, including music, drama, visual arts, dance, and media arts. According to the USBE Fine Arts website:

A well-rounded education includes the arts. The fine arts allow students to explore new ideas, take appropriate risks, creatively problem-solve, collaborate, develop aesthetic awareness, explore the world and other cultures, and express themselves.

The culminating event featured a moving cello performance by endorsed Westridge Elementary Teacher Logan McKinney, who shared his insights from studying Hungary’s music education system. “The power of arts in education is to elevate students to the highest possible level in child-friendly ways,” McKinney remarked.

Lakeview Elementary Linda Moser reflected on her journey during the endorsement process: “Two years ago, I would not have called myself an artist. But through this program, I’ve rediscovered my artistic side and realized that with practice and patience, anyone can express themselves artistically.”

Fellow Lakeview Elementary Teacher Karen Cox emphasized the impact of the arts on engagement in the classroom, saying that “the times when my students are most engaged are when we are involved in the arts—drawing, singing, acting, dancing. These activities bring life to our learning environment.”

Franklin Elementary Teacher Joan Halsey, who teaches a diverse group of multilingual learners, highlighted the universal appeal of the arts. “Arts provide a common ground where all students, regardless of their background, can access the curriculum, feel part of the community, and truly thrive,” Halsey explained.

As part of their achievement, each teacher compiled a digital portfolio showcasing how their students have deeply engaged with core subjects through the arts. These portfolios were presented at the awards dinner, highlighting the transformative educational experiences in their classrooms.

We encourage community members and educational professionals to contact these talented educators to learn more about the impactful learning in their classrooms through arts integration.

Photo Caption: Pictured from left to right at the awards ceremony are Joan Halsey, Linda Moser, Karen Cox, and Logan McKinney.

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