The Arts

Music at Stratford supports the growth and development of the whole child, while building a life-long love of music. Multi-sensory lessons assist learning and engagement.  In accordance with National Association for Musical Education and Pennsylvania Standards for Arts & Humanities, students sing, act, and perform on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music and theatre. Upon entering 5th grade, students have the opportunity for private & group instruction on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet or percussion (snare drum). Students examine the relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts, as well as music in relation to history and culture.  Creative thinking is encouraged through composing, arranging, and improvisation. We practice responsible risk-taking, build self confidence and learn teamwork through mini-performances in the classroom, school community performances, public concerts and musicals.

Visual Arts

Our art program focuses on developing the student’s unique creativity and self-expression through the exploration of art materials and themes. Students draw, paint, sculpt and work with ceramics, collage and a variety of digital arts. Art class is a place where students explore and develop their own creative expression while beginning to explore the many different roles art takes in our everyday lives.

SmArts Week

Not only do our students learn differently, but they also think differently, seeing the world in all sorts of interesting ways. SmArts Week is a once annual program during which students have a chance to unleash their creativity, choosing from a variety of arts classes. Photography, cooking, acting, mosaics, sewing, stop-action animation, woodworking, and gardening are just a few of the classes offered in past years. Led by a teacher, each class includes children of all ages, providing an opportunity to share ideas, learn from each other, and make new friends. Classes meet every afternoon during the week culminating in a sharing day where students present their projects to the entire school. SmArts Week is a great way to celebrate and foster the arts in education.