Performing arts programs in high school are sometimes the target of cost-cutting measures by school districts under extreme funding pressure. In many cases, underfunded performing arts programs or new programs may qualify for one or more grants for implementation or improvement.
Dana Foundation
The Dana Foundation is a private philanthropic organization founded by New York state legislator, industrialist and philanthropist Charles A. Dana. Part of the foundation's work focuses on developing and improving the teaching of performing arts in public schools. The foundation has an outreach program that provides books, periodicals and information on the performing arts to high schools. It also offers grants for innovative curricula and teaching in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles.
California Education Department
California's Department of Education offers performing arts grants to state high schools. The Arts Work Visual and Performing Arts Education Grant Program provides professional development and help to implement comprehensive, standards-based instruction programs in the visual and performing arts. The department also administers Arts and Music Block Grants to help charter schools and county high schools fund performing and visual arts instruction and programs.
Children's Theater Foundation
The Children's Theater Foundation of America administers the Reba R. Robertson Award. This award targets high school performing arts teachers and allows recipients to continue their studies so they can bring that knowledge and experience back to their home school. The CTFA was founded in 1958 to fund and advance professional interest in theater among young people.
National Endowment for the Arts
The National Endowment for the Arts administers grants to help high schools design, implement and improve performing arts programs. Because the grants are constantly changing, check with the NEA directly for available grants that could help your school's performing arts programs.
