Student Voices
Real stories from students whose lives have been shaped by arts education.
"Band changed my life because when at the concerts, you show how hard you've been working. Also, you can play the genre you want, even when it is hard, you can always practice and always get better and you can always play whatever makes you happy."
"We should always try to respect and understand each other. We need to considerate of others. Only then can we under stand each other and get close to each other and become one."
Melody L.
Grade 7th · Music
Community Voices
Community Voices
Parents and community members share how the arts shaped their lives and family.
"The arts have been important to me because they helped me consider different points of view, understand my culture better and were a venue for expressing myself. I went to the theater to see plays and musicals, and performed in dance productions several times a year my entire growing up. There are stories that shape our lives and culture, and knowing those stories has made me more open minded and curious about the creativity in others. I think these experiences have made me a better parent and a journalist. "
"I see how therapeutic self expression through the arts has been for my children. Through performing and visual arts they have been able to imagine themselves in different roles and situations, experimenting with versions of themselves. They have been encouraged to take risks, work hard and apply themselves diligently to achieve their objectives. "
Elizabeth Hurst
Parent / Guardian
VAPA at a Glance — 2025–26
18
Active School Sites
13,914+
Students Served
$2.96M
Prop 28 Investment
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Art Disciplines
Achievements
Program Highlights
Achievements and milestones from our arts programs across the district.
Recognitions
