ZONE & ACADEMICS

“AB Zone is pretty cool because of the staff that help students with academics. I am reminded that aside from art, core subjects like math and English are also fundamental to my success as a student.”

Using feedback from Artward Bound student ambassadors, the AB Zone launched in the spring of 2019 with the goal of rethinking how Artward Bound provides academic support. Each Monday, students gather to complete homework, work one-on-one with the Academic Team, prepare for college, and strengthen their art skills. The Zone’s largely self-directed format encourages students to develop relationships outside of their art classes, help each other, learn to work independently, and practice self-advocacy.

Students also develop reading, writing, and math skills, and improve work and study habits during the Summer Semester morning classes. Art projects are informed by the literacy and math skills gained during the summer, which also put them on track with a toolbox for college.

“Artward Bound really focuses on telling students how they can use art and academic skills to approach situations in life. I’m grateful as a math teacher to be able to develop a curriculum that was fun and engaging, and that was able to connect to the arts in a fun way.”