HAMDEN, CT, July 3, 2025 — Arts for Learning CT is honored to announce a $1,500 grant award from the Hamden Rotary Foundation in support of its Higher Order Thinking Schools program at Church Street Elementary School for the 2025–26 school year.
This funding will help bring a transformative, whole-school approach to teaching and learning through the arts, benefiting over 275 students and 50 faculty and staff at the Hamden-based school. The Higher Order Thinking Schools model encompasses school-wide performances, in-class artist residencies, hands-on workshops, and professional development for educators, all focused on integrating social-emotional learning with arts instruction.
“We’re proud to partner with the Hamden Rotary Foundation to bring deep-impact arts learning experiences to students and educators in our own hometown,” said John-Michael Parker, Executive Director of Arts for Learning CT. “Rotary’s commitment to service and leadership aligns powerfully with our mission, and we are grateful for their continued support.”
Church Street Elementary is a long-standing partner of AFLCT and a model site for the HOT Schools initiative, which uses the arts to foster creativity, critical thinking, student voice, and a joyful, inclusive school culture. With 96% of students identifying as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color and 68% qualifying for Free or Reduced Price Meals, the program is designed to meet both the academic and social-emotional needs of students through equitable, engaging arts learning.
The Hamden Rotary Foundation’s support is part of a broader funding strategy that includes contributions from the CT Office of the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the NewAlliance Foundation. Together, these partners help sustain high-quality, community-centered arts education via the Higher Order Thinking Schools model in Hamden and beyond.
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 Hamden Rotary Foundation
The Hamden Rotary Foundation supports charitable efforts that align with the values of Rotary International, emphasizing service above self, education, and community betterment. For more information, visit www.hamdenrotary.org.