After careful consideration of nearly 500 applications, California Casualty has designated 142 schools throughout the country as 2021 Music and Arts Grant awardees.
The recipients, representing 29 states, demonstrated a strong financial need that aligned with the purpose of the program – to keep music and arts in schools.
Arts and music programs have long been shown to enhance students’ critical thinking skills, foster creativity, and improve their concentration, motivation, and confidence. With COVID-19 still having an impact on communities and schools, the arts continue to play a critical role in helping children express themselves, connect with each other, process stress, and stay engaged in their ever-changing learning environment.
California Casualty’s $36,000 in grants will give more students a chance to learn music, act in a school play, or hone their artistic talents throughout the 2021-2022 academic year.
“The importance of arts education can’t be overstated,” said California Casualty Assistant Vice President Brian Goodman. “We are proud that we can help teachers provide more creative opportunities for students and schools.”
The 142 grants of $250 each will provide financial assistance for efforts such as:
- Creation of a sound garden outside the school building. An immersive sound experience combining instruments and weather.
- Rotating classrooms art class. “Messy Mat” trays so students can protect desks and carpet from paint, watercolor, clay, and glue.
- Student-assembled PPE kits and protective face shields for school plays.
- To repair and replace broken elementary school classroom instruments.
- Instant Cameras to teach students about photography and still life art.
- Fabric to make Mariachi skirts for the state of Jalisco for a 50-student Mexican Folklorico Dance group.
- Music therapy class for students with autism.
- Drama department materials for sets, scripts, and costumes.
Missouri Recipients
- Claire Majerus, Locust Street Expressive Arts Elementary School, Columbia MNEA
- Erin Rockford, Belvidere Elementary School, Grandview NEA
- Katie Biere, Liberty High School, Wentzville NEA
- Kathy Hann, Meramec Heights Elementary School, Fox NEA