Arts for Learning Virginia

05/30/2026

05/25/2026

A little rain could not stop the fun!

Thank you to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge for hosting Rainbow Puppet Productions performance of Animal Parade during their fee-free day! We love seeing families come together to enjoy the arts, nature, and plenty of smiles despite the weather!

This performance was supported in part by awards from the Virginia Commission for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Commission, Helen G Gifford Foundation, TowneBank Foundation, PRA Group, and Arts Alliance.

05/22/2026

We are grateful for the opportunity to engage with Norfolk Public Schools and to see Dr. Jeff Rose’s vision taking shape. His emphasis on listening, strengthening relationships, and aligning support systems resonates deeply—these are the foundations of lasting student success.

We look forward to continued collaboration as we support the bright future ahead for NPS.

Bridging the gap through partnership, collaboration, and community.

At Norfolk Public Schools’ Coffee & Conversation event, Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose joined community leaders, educators, and partners to discuss a shared vision centered on belonging, collaboration, and student success.

From arts and STEM opportunities to stronger family and community engagement, NPS is committed to creating meaningful pathways for every student to thrive.

👉 Read more: https://tinyurl.com/yf3kun5j

05/22/2026

Join us in celebrating a major milestone! As the school year comes to a close across Virginia’s cities, counties, and colleges, we are proud to recognize one of our very own.

Congratulations to our Finance and Programs Assistant, Sydney Rivers, who graduated from Old Dominion University on Saturday, May 16, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Finance Major), a minor in Risk Management & Insurance, and Honors!

05/14/2026

Minette Cooper’s legacy is deeply woven into the story and foundation of Arts for Learning Virginia. To honor her, we’re awarding 1 person the Heart of the Arts Award in late October.

Minette’s family’s connection to Young Audiences began with her father-in-law, Dudley Cooper, a key figure in establishing the Virginia affiliate. Minette went on to serve in many roles over the decades – including volunteer program director, three-time board president, and later as a national board member with Young Audiences, Inc. in New York.

Throughout her leadership, she guided with both clarity and heart – challenging us to think more deeply, plan more intentionally, and serve more children through meaningful, high-quality arts experiences. Her influence continues to shape how we grow and the values we carry forward.

As we honor her legacy, we continue her work by keeping her lessons and example at the center of all we do. Nominations for the Heart of the Arts Award are open until June 26!

05/14/2026

On Tuesday, we were proud to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of United Way of Hampton Roads’ Project Inclusion and recognize a very special accomplishment by our Board Member, Heather Smith! 🎉

Congratulations to Heather on graduating as part of the Project Inclusion Class of 2026. Her passion for service, leadership, and community impact continues to inspire us, and we are so grateful for the dedication she brings to our organization and the Hampton Roads community.

Heather, we are incredibly proud of you and excited to see all the amazing things ahead as you continue making a difference throughout our region. 💙💛

Congratulations as well to the entire Project Inclusion Class of 2026 on this remarkable achievement!

05/13/2026

What an incredible week of music across Portsmouth Public Schools! 🎻🎶

Monday night featured Cradock Elementary Strings Impact students and the Cradock Middle School Orchestra. Tuesday night showcased Churchland Elementary Strings Impact students alongside performances from Churchland Middle and High School musicians. Tonight, we are excited to celebrate W.E. Waters Middle School Orchestra, Simonsdale Elementary Strings Impact students, and the Manor High School Orchestra!

Strings Impact is designed to inspire and encourage young musicians to continue their orchestra journey into middle and high school, and these concerts beautifully highlighted those pathways for students and families.

Thank you to Arts for Learning Virginia's teaching artists Amina Bryant and Tina Culver as well as the residency stewards, school administrators, educators, and families for making these opportunities possible!

05/11/2026

Who in your life leads with creativity, heart, and a belief in the power of the arts? ❤️🎨

The Heart of the Arts Award honors individuals who reflect the legacy of Minette Cooper – an enduring advocate for arts education whose leadership helped shape Arts for Learning Virginia. Her example continues to guide our work in expanding meaningful arts experiences for young people and communities.

A strong nominee is someone who believes in the power of the arts to inspire and connect, and actively helps make arts learning more accessible—whether through teaching, creating, volunteering, advocating, or someone recognizing their own impact.

Nominations are open now through June 26!

05/07/2026

May brings fresh opportunities to move, create, and connect through the arts! Join Arts for Learning Virginia this month for joyful arts experiences that celebrate culture, music, movement, and self-expression for learners of all ages.

These programs are presented by Arts for Learning Virginia and supported in part by an award from the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding is also provided by the Chesapeake, Norfolk, and Williamsburg Area Arts Commission.