• Students may participate in varied solo and group performance opportunities, including: Zimriyah Music Fest; Shabbat and other Religious Programs; Holiday Programs; Eighth Grade Sendoff Program; Graduation; Talent Show; Show Choir Performances; Community Events. • The music curriculum is closely aligned with Hebrew and Judaic Studies, supporting and strengthening students’ Hebrew language skills and understanding of Judaic culture. • The school invests in materials for continued growth of the music program, including technology, textbooks, classroom instruments, and furnishings for performances. • Students make group visits to local music events, including professional opera and orchestral performances. • Students give back to the Dallas community by providing choral music for individuals residing in retirement, nursing home, or hospital facilities. • Music faculty create unique opportunities to feature the musical talents of students who excel in specialized areas. Challenges and Weaknesses within Levine Academy’s Fine Arts Programs Overall Fine Arts Program: • Limited instruction time and a full week between classes puts constraints on project possibilities and makes it difficult to maintain strong connections with students. • Scheduling complications make it di fficult to arrange field trips, visiting artists and Fine Arts assemblies • Middle school students have no Fine Arts requirement. In the eyes of students, Fine Arts curriculum is not essential, and it does not merit a commitment of time or investment of effort. Consequently, students have difficulty setting goals for themselves and following through with course objectives. Teachers find it difficult to hold students accountable and teach the merits of embracing challenge. • More intense or advanced courses of study for middle school students necessitate a year-long, twice weekly, or double period commitment, which presents logistical difficulties. Challenges and weaknesses — Visual Arts Program • Middle school students routinely miss Art Class to participate in special programs or make up work for other teachers. One missed class means that a student will not return to the studio for two full weeks. Absences seriously disrupt the student’s momentum. • The current Visual Arts program does not provide options for students who wish to put together a portfolio or pursue more advanced development of their talents. • Although technology is integrated into the middle school Visual Art curriculum, there are currently no technology-specific course offerings, such as Photoshop or Digital Photography electives. • The Visual Arts Program does not have a strong online presence, such as a virtual gallery or online portfolios where students can display their work.
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