HAMDEN, CT — July 29, 2025 — Arts for Learning CT (AFLCT) is proud to announce it has received a $2,500 grant from the Zayas Law Fund for Arts and Education at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. This generous support will help sustain and expand the organization’s signature Higher Order Thinking Schools initiative for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The grant will help AFLCT provide direct services to HOT Schools, including professional development for teachers, residencies by Teaching Artists, and arts-integrated curriculum support, benefitting hundreds of students and educators throughout the region.
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 Hartford Foundation for Public Giving
The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, established in 1925, is the community foundation for the 29-town Greater Hartford region. The Foundation works to bring together resources, both human and financial, to improve the lives of all residents. Learn more at www.hfpg.org.