Arts for Learning CT (AFLCT) is proud to announce it has received a $20,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut to continue supporting the Higher Order Thinking Schools program at Regional Multicultural Magnet School (RMMS) in New London. Now entering its fourth year at RMMS, the HOT Schools initiative brings culturally responsive, arts-integrated learning to the entire school community through performances, workshops, residencies, and professional development.
The funding will allow AFLCT to continue offering equitable, high-impact programming that supports student engagement, enhances school culture, and expands teacher practice. The initiative centers on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), Culturally Responsive Teaching, and Universal Design for Learning, making it especially effective for RMMS’s diverse student population. Over 60% of students identify as people of color, 65% qualify for free or reduced-price meals, and over 15% have disabilities.
“This grant strengthens a powerful, growing partnership between RMMS and our team,” said John-Michael Parker, Executive Director of Arts for Learning Connecticut. “Together, we’re creating school-wide change, ensuring students feel seen, supported, and empowered through the arts.”
Over the next year, HOT Schools will serve all 501 K–5 students and 89 RMMS educators. The program’s layered approach includes school-wide assemblies, in-class art workshops, Teaching Artist residencies, and professional development that equips teachers with creative, student-centered instruction tools.
The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut’s investment also aligns with its mission to promote racial equity, economic inclusion, and educational opportunity in the region. AFLCT’s work specifically reaches inclusive populations such as students of color, low-income families, individuals with disabilities, and multilingual learners.
Sponsorship and philanthropic support remain welcome and essential to this work’s continued growth. For information on how to get involved or contribute, please visit www.aflct.org or contact Jed Kornbluh, Director of Business Development, via [email protected].
About the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut stewards over 600 funds and annually awards more than $8 million in grants and scholarships. The Foundation’s mission is to foster inclusive, healthy, and thriving communities by supporting organizations that promote equity, education, and opportunity across Eastern Connecticut.
For more information about their work, please visit https://cfect.org/about/about-us
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.