HAMDEN, CT — August 29, 2025 — Arts for Learning CT (AFLCT) is proud to announce a grant award of $5,000 from the Wilmington Trust, to support the implementation of Higher Order Thinking Schools programming Norwalk Public Schools.
This funding will help bring rich, arts-integrated learning opportunities to Norwalk’s students, enhancing academic engagement, social-emotional development, and creative thinking through the arts. The Higher Order Thinking Schools model, rooted in decades of educational research, emphasizes student voice, teacher leadership, and strong school culture, all powered by professional artists collaborating with educators in the classroom.
Through this partnership, AFLCT will continue its mission to foster deeper learning and stronger communities through creativity, collaboration, and cultural responsiveness. Schools benefiting from this grant include Wolfpit Integrated Arts School and Concord Magnet School.
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.