Approaching education as an art, it is found that real intelligence arises only when learners are given opportunities to engage not only their heads, but their hands and hearts as well. A Waldorf-based curriculum method of exploration includes assignments that not only require learners to read, write and think, but also to paint, draw, play music, express dramatically, write poetry, build things, and learn through experience.

In this way, students become balanced, integrated, and harmonious human beings. In addition to an academic curriculum which can be followed at home, ensemble opportunities allow students to become involved in performance and artistic expression. These group interactions allow experiences as creators and audiences, team members and critics. Communication with peers, group goal setting, quality assurance, self-discipline and problem solving are required skill sets for any performance art discipline.The River Arts Academy encourages a comprehensive arts experience for all students.

Flowers don't bloom directly from seeds--they progress through cycles, and each cycle develops an important part of the plant: roots, stem, leaves and flower. As with plants in nature, the individual progresses through stages of inquiry and creativity. Art-centered learners are multifaceted beings who develop in cycles, and the unique needs of each cycle must be met if they are to become mature, responsible, intelligent human beings. Art-centered learning respects the needs of learners in each cycle of development, and the curricula used is written to cooperate with these developmental needs.

From the moment of birth, perhaps before, human beings are learning. The human capacity to learn from the surrounding environment, from one another, and through all of the senses is an amazing resource to be treasured. The River Arts Academy programs and services accommodate a wide variety of learning styles and provide opportunities for all to learn easily, effectively, and enjoyably. If the needs of students cannot be encompassed by our standard curriculum and programs, we will develop performance opportunities to meet individual needs.

At the heart of education is relationship and trust. Learners of all ages are intelligent, sensitive, creative beings eager to express all they are inside. The key to releasing this innate intelligence and creativity lies in creating a caring, supportive relationship. Human beings can only express their intelligence and sensitivity when they feel safe to do so. River Arts Academy provides a variety of support experiences with art-centered learning as the focus:

* Customized educational services that meet changing needs;

* Trained artists/educators;

* Ensembles and performance opportunities;

* Effective instructional technology;

* Comprehensive music and arts curricula that encourage exploration of the arts individually, socially, and artistically.