The Buffalo Public School District is making preparations for a new state-of-the-art Early Childhood Performing Arts School in the city's Central Park community. WBFO's Focus on Education Reporter Eileen Buckley says School Number 61 will be transformed into the new format.
"So I think it will be a new, innovative and exciting opportunity for parents," said Dr. Tonja Williams, Principal,, Arthur O. Eve School of Distinction on Leroy Avenue.
Williams said she is very excited to begin this process. A grant application will be submitted to the state by the Buffalo School Board. By next school year students in Pre-K-through 4th grade are expected to be mixing in the rigors of Common Core learning with visual arts, music, theater and ballet.
"If 4th graders studying about the American Revolution, now they will also be able to do some theatrical things. Even with studying violin and learning about notes and quarter notes and half notes, that's tied into fractions and math," noted Williams.
Currently the school houses more than 300-students. Three pre-K classes and another kindergartner class will be added to accommodate about 80-new students.
But unlike the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, a criteria-based city school, there will be no requirements for entering. It will be open to all children.
"There's no test or audition or anything like that, and so no, there will be no criteria attached to this school. It will be a random lottery," stated Williams.
Principal Williams tells WBFO News while there is some academic performance growth, seven-percent of her students were proficient in ELA and math, but said students still struggling with proficiency. However, she she is certain the format change will enhance their learning.
For those interested in learning more, a community meeting with be held on Thursday evening, October 29, from 6:00- 7:30 p.m. at School #61, 453 Leroy Avenue. Parents and community members will also have the opportunity to join an Advisory Committee. Those who will be in attendance for the community meeting are asked to please call the school at 816-3400 or email Principal Tonja Williams at: Tmwilliams@buffaloschools.org.