As we all know, the integration of arts into modern education has shown a positive impact on the student’s overall development. Nassau BOCES, located in Westbury, aims to promote the significance of arts in education and runs several programs to offer well-rounded and comprehensive education to their students.
In this blog, we’ll explore various aspects of Nassau BOCES arts in education programs such as What is Nassau BOCES?, What is the difference between art and art education?, What are considered the arts in education?, What is arts-based curriculum?, eastern Suffolk BOCES arts in-education, and other related topics. And we’ll also share how Nassau BOCES programs have been aiding students in expanding their knowledge beyond the traditional education curriculum.
What is Nassau BOCES?
For those of you who might not be familiar with the term ‘BOCES,’ it stands for Board of Cooperative Educational Services. Nassau BOCES is a state-supported educational agency that provides comprehensive educational services to 56 school districts and private schools in Nassau County. Nassau BOCES programs primarily focus on bringing arts to education, and their arts-in-education program has been applauded by educators, students, and parents across Nassau County.
One of the critical components of the Nassau BOCES program is its Central Office located in Garden City, which oversees and manages programs in several fields, including arts, career and life skills, special education, and technology.
What Is the Difference Between Art and Art Education?
Many people misunderstand art with art education. While art is a creative output involving skills in a particular form such as drawing, painting, or sculpture, art education is the process of learning about various forms of art, art history, art topics, and developing essential life skills associated with art principles.
At Nassau BOCES, art education offers students a new way of thinking and perceiving the world while developing their aesthetic awareness and skills. Its programs concentrate on the development of students’ creativity and intellectual ability and encourage them to express themselves through activities such as crafts, music, theatre, visual arts, and dance.
What are Considered the Arts in Education?
The National Arts Education Association (NAEA) defines the arts as an extensive range of disciplines, including music, theatre, visual arts, and dance. Nassau BOCES’ arts in education program covers these forms of arts, with a particular focus on providing students with a comprehensive and immersive learning experience.
The program offers students opportunities to attend various workshops, seminars, and cultural events to enrich their knowledge and immerse them in various forms of art.
What is Arts-based Curriculum?
An arts-based curriculum is a curriculum that emphasizes the use of art in teaching various subjects and developing essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. At Nassau BOCES, the arts-based curriculum develops students’ cultural understanding and improves their communication and collaboration skills. It aligns with the New York State Learning Standards and allows students to build their creativity and self-expression in various art forms.
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Arts in Education
Eastern Suffolk BOCES also offers art education programs, mainly focusing on the five disciplines of art. Its programs help students extend their knowledge of art and enhance their appreciation of cultural diversity.
The Eastern Suffolk BOCES is similar to the Nassau BOCES program and covers various areas of arts education such as music, theatre, visual arts, dance and includes workshops, seminars, cultural events, and art performances.
Nassau BOCES Programs
In addition to the arts-based curriculum, Nassau BOCES also offers various programs to students, including special education, career and life skills, and technology. Students can attend these programs to improve their skills and abilities in different fields, enabling them to become well-rounded individuals.
Nassau BOCES Board of Education
The Nassau BOCES Board of Education oversees various educational services and approves the organizations’ policies and programs. It includes nine members, six elected by the Board of Education of participating districts and three are appointed by the New York State Commissioner of Education.
Nassau BOCES Professional Development
Nassau BOCES’ professional development program is designed to provide educators and school administrators with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve teaching and learning outcomes in their respective schools. The program offers a wide range of courses and training opportunities that cover essential educational topics such as student assessment, curriculum development, technology, and various aspects of arts-based education.
Nassau BOCES Transportation
Nassau BOCES Transportation department provides transportation services for schools under the Nassau BOCES educational system, including field trips and other educational activities. This service ensures that students have access to various educational opportunities without worrying about transportation issues.
Conclusion
The Nassau BOCES arts in education program has been playing a crucial role in the education of many students across Nassau County. Its focus on the development of skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration has allowed students to expand their knowledge beyond the traditional education curriculum.
Through its various programs in art education, career and life-skill development, special education, and technology, students can develop their skills, explore their interests, and prepare for college and careers. Therefore, the Nassau BOCES arts in education program has been helping students to become lifelong learners and contributing members of their community.