At Rosemont School of the Holy Child, arts are not options, electives, or subjects to fit in around so-called core studies such as math and science. Here, arts are essential. Rosemont School infuses creative and performing arts across the entire educational spectrum, from 3 Years through 8th grade.
“The blending of the arts in the core academic courses is encouraged at RSHC,” said Deb Borden, Associate Head of School. “The arts teachers work collaboratively with the subject area teachers to plan projects that stretch across the curriculum.”
From Early Childhood to Middle School, the arts are a major factor in developing self-confidence, leadership skills, and self-expression¸ in keeping with the five C’s of 21st century education: creativity, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and character.
Group performances, for example, begin in Early Childhood, with plays and Christmas programs. Throughout Lower School, and well into Middle School, children produce increasingly elaborate performances, which combine public speaking, poise, and memorization.
Creative arts can relate to science, as well. This corresponds with the national movement to expand the concept of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) into STEAM (adding the arts component). The merging of the creative and performing arts with other curricula reaches its zenith in the new Middle School MAD Lab – a dynamic, technological playground where students are encouraged to imagine and create.
“This reflects 21st century education,” said Head of School Tom Lengel, “because it encourages students to create knowledge, not just consume it, to express their learning in different media than just on a written exam.”
“Children at Rosemont School,” he added, “will have 11 years of continuous musical and arts training with a well-structured curriculum. This is something that separates us from other schools.”
