"The life of the arts, far from being an interruption,a distraction, in the life of a nation, is close to the center of a nation's purpose and is a test of the quality of a nation's civilization."
--- John F. Kennedy
Philosophy of the Fine and Performing Arts Department
Arts instruction in the Ramsey Public School comprises courses in music, visual arts and theater. In each content area, instruction is strongly rooted in the creation, production, and performance of the art form as well as developing students ability to respond to, and critique, art. Through frequent active participation in the arts, students learn about the elements, principles, and performance practices of the various art forms. A strong emphasis is placed on teaching processes and skills associated with each of the arts rather than on rote-teaching, through which students gain the confidence to become independent artists, musicians, and actors who can solve authentic and meaningful artistic problems.
While students who wish to pursue a career in the arts will be well-prepared to do so, it is the goal that all graduates will have the tools and conceptual understandings to lead meaningful and enriching lives in connection with the arts.
