HAMDEN, CT, July 3, 2025 — Arts for Learning Connecticut (AFLCT) is proud to announce a grant award from the American Savings Foundation to support its Higher Order Thinking Schools program at F.J. Kingsbury School in Waterbury during the 2025–26 academic year. This generous funding will help bring high-impact arts integration to students and educators at Kingsbury, a vital step in enriching academic achievement and school culture through creative engagement.
The Higher Order Thinking Schools model, developed in partnership with the Connecticut Office of the Arts, utilizes the arts to deepen learning, promote student voice, and foster inclusive and joyful classrooms. AFLCT’s yearlong partnership with Kingsbury will include in-class artist residencies, school-wide performances, professional development for teachers, and arts-integrated learning experiences that align with both academic and social-emotional goals.
Kingsbury is one of two schools in Waterbury implementing the Higher Order Thinking Schools model, which emphasizes three core principles: strong arts, democratic practice, and child-centered instruction. These values translate into vibrant classrooms where students develop not only academic skills but also confidence, communication, empathy, and critical thinking.
The American Savings Foundation is a longtime supporter of innovative education programs across Connecticut, and this grant reflects its commitment to expanding opportunity and supporting whole-child development.
About Higher Order Thinking Schools
The Higher Order Thinking Schools program is a comprehensive initiative integrating arts learning into the core curriculum to improve school and student outcomes. Its goals are to improve student engagement, enrich school culture, and expand teacher practice. It is built on the belief that arts learning promotes higher-order thinking and develops skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. HOT Schools partner schools are characterized by their focus on Social and Emotional Learning, Culturally Responsive Teaching practice, and school culture, fostering an environment where every student is encouraged to engage actively in their learning. The program has been recognized nationally for its innovative approach to education and its success in enhancing student achievement.
About the American Savings Foundation
The American Savings Foundation is a permanent charitable endowment dedicated to strengthening the community through grants to nonprofit organizations and college scholarships. With a special focus on education, human services, and arts & culture, the Foundation supports programs that improve the lives of children, youth, and families in Greater Waterbury, New Britain, and surrounding communities. Learn more at www.asfdn.org.