Hamden, CT — June 16, 2026 — Arts for Learning Connecticut (AFLCT) has received a $2,500 grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation in support of its Higher Order Thinking (HOT) Schools program at Regional Multicultural Magnet School in New London. The award will help expand arts-integrated learning opportunities that foster creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and student engagement.
The funding will support AFLCT’s ongoing partnership with Regional Multicultural Magnet School, where students and educators engage in arts-integrated learning experiences designed to strengthen academic achievement, social-emotional development, and school culture.
“We are grateful to the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation for investing in arts education and the students of New London,” said John-Michael Parker, Executive Director of Arts for Learning Connecticut. “Partnerships like this help ensure that young people have access to creative learning experiences that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and support success both in and beyond the classroom.”
Regional Multicultural Magnet School is among a growing network of Connecticut schools participating in the HOT Schools initiative. The program’s emphasis on arts integration, social-emotional learning, and culturally responsive teaching helps schools create meaningful learning experiences that engage students and strengthen educational outcomes.
“We know that the arts play a critical role in helping students think creatively, solve problems, and connect with one another,” Parker added. “This support from Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation helps make those opportunities possible for students in New London.”
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.