Hamden, CT — August 5, 2026 — Arts for Learning Connecticut (AFLCT) has received a $5,000 “We’re Pulling for You” grant from the SBM Charitable Foundation to continue its “Express Yourself” afterschool arts learning program in Manchester during the 2026-27 school year.
The program will serve approximately 50-60 students at Verplanck, Keeney, and Waddell elementary schools through AFLCT’s partnership with Manchester Early Learning Center and Manchester Public Schools. Students at each school will participate in weekly arts learning sessions for eight weeks, resulting in 24 workshops across the three participating schools.
“SBM Charitable Foundation has been an important partner in helping us expand meaningful arts learning opportunities for Manchester students,” said Jed Kornbluh, Director of Business Development at Arts for Learning Connecticut. “This continued support will give young people the opportunity to explore their creativity, express their ideas, and build confidence through hands-on experiences with professional Teaching Artists.”
At least six AFLCT Teaching Artists will lead sessions representing a variety of artistic disciplines, including visual art, storytelling, spoken word poetry, dance, theatre, puppetry, music, and movement-based learning. Each workshop will combine artistic exploration and skill-building with opportunities for students to create original work and share their own stories.
“Express Yourself” is designed to strengthen student engagement, imagination, collaboration, self-expression, and confidence. Its curriculum also supports the National Core Arts Standards and core social-emotional learning competencies, including self-awareness, self-management, and social awareness.
The participating schools were selected in consultation with Manchester Early Learning Center based on student needs. Across the three schools, approximately 65% of students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals, underscoring the importance of providing accessible enrichment opportunities outside the traditional school day.