South Pointe Named to State List for Promoting the Arts

The Walnut Valley school is among the first to be selected for the new state award.

State Superintendent Tom Torlakson has recognized 19 public schools, which are also 2013 Distinguished Schools, with two new state Exemplary Program Awards for their successful and innovative efforts to promote either the arts or physical activity and nutrition.

South Pointe is one of the 13 schools that received the 2013 Exemplary Arts Program Award.

“If we want our students to succeed inside and outside the classroom, they need an education that takes the ‘whole child’ into account. Encouraging creativity and good nutrition and physical activity are just some of the ways these schools are working to accomplish exactly that,” he said. 

South Pointe is a school filled with S.T.E.A.M. – science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. The award-winning school proudly offers an integrated technology program, award winning academics and performing arts programs combined with innovative opportunities such as Project Lead the Way - Engineering and the 2013 implementation of Bio Med.  Together these programs create a school filled with S.T.E.A.M!

“We are fortunate to have a staff dedicated to ensuring our students are prepared for their future.  The cross-curricular connections of the Arts enhance learning and provide rigor while instilling a joy that students carry with them for a lifetime!” said Principal Susan Arzola. 

The schools selected for the two new exemplary program awards reflect Torlakson’s goals outlined in his Blueprint for Great Schools report.

The Exemplary Arts Program Award reflects Torlakson's commitment to the arts and creative education as essential components of a high-quality comprehensive education. This program recognizes schools that, in addition to high academic achievement indicated by their Distinguished School qualifications, have committed time and resources to broad-based arts education programs that strengthen students' creativity and encourage their personal interests.

Schools selected for the Exemplary Arts distinction have demonstrated school and community support for standards-based arts programs across multiple disciplines. These programs have made a significant impact on school culture and academic success. This award is directly related to the California Department of Education's involvement in CREATE CA, a statewide coalition of agencies and organizations working to further arts education in California. 

The Physical Activity and Nutrition Exemplary Program Award recognizes schools that are making significant strides in their school environment related to physical activity and nutrition. Active and well-nourished students demonstrate improved attendance and greater academic achievement. A healthy school environment provides clear and consistent health messages, accurate health and nutrition information and opportunities for increased physical activity.

Elementary and secondary schools are recognized in alternate years, and this year middle and high schools were acknowledged.