In my early days as a teacher, and then again as a parent, I came to understand that history and literature come alive when a child (or adult) is given a window into the art and culture of the period they are studying. Learning in, through, and about the arts is a strategy to assure that all children have access and multiple entry points to learning across the curriculum. I have learned that participation and practice in the arts for every child – my child, your child – in every school is a strategic initiative to bring rigor into teaching and learning through disciplinary understanding.

As I move through my busy days, my understanding of the world and of the best way to make it a better place is enhanced through all the ways I engage with the arts: in my home, in my work, in my own community, and in communities I explore as a visitor. I relish all that art has to offer me and want to make sure that every child gets to enjoy the same right to a richer life through their own arts engagement.

Since I became County Superintendent, I made the arts – and equitable access to the arts – driving principles for the work of the Alameda County Office of Education. Through the creation of the Alameda County Alliance for Arts Learning Leadership, we have developed a shared vision for arts learning for every child in every school, every day, that has informed the role of county offices of education throughout the state and has shaped a shared statewide commitment for what California schools can be.

I invite you to explore this online learning community for arts learning supporters. My hope is that you will find useful information and resources, make connections with others passionate about the power of arts learning, and share your student learning and classroom successes!

Sheila Jordan
Superintendent
Alameda County Office of Education