Support in Arts Instruction Initiative 

March 2, 2025 

ArtsConnection proudly participated in the NYC Council’s announcement of a $4 million investment in arts education across 239 public schools. Representing ArtsConnection, Dionne Thornton, Director of Development and Communications, spoke at the press conference and delivered a compelling message: 
“Four million dollars needs to be ten!”

Dionne’s words echoed the ongoing need for deeper and more sustainable investment in arts education. While this announcement marks an important step forward, it also highlights the continued urgency to expand arts access for all NYC students since only 31% of NYC eighth graders met New York State learning requirements for arts education last school year and 379 NYC public schools still lack a certified arts teacher. That is 1 in 5 schools; leaving thousands of students without arts instruction.

📰 Coverage: Broadway World | PIX11 | AMNY | News12 Bronx 

“It Starts With the Arts” Rally & City Council Hearing 

April 8, 2025 

On April 8th, ArtsConnection joined educators, advocates, and City Council Members at the “It Starts With the Arts” Rally and Joint Oversight Hearing on Ensuring Equity and Access in the Arts. 

Rachel Watts, ArtsConnection Executive Director, represented the organization, sharing:
“For us, arts education is about supporting young people to build important skills that will help them succeed in life.” 

The rally emphasized the need for greater transparency in arts funding and access across NYC schools—a crucial step in guaranteeing equitable, high-quality arts education for all students. The recently funded “Support for Arts Instruction” initiative can only support 239 of NYC’s 1700 schools when every NYC public school deserves a certified arts teacher.  

📰 Coverage: AMNY | NY Daily News | Politico’s First Read 

ArtsConnection Featured on Pix 11 for World Arts Day 

April 14, 2025 

Earlier this month, ArtsConnection was honored to be featured on PIX11 Morning News in celebration of World Arts Day. Representing the organization were Executive Director Rachel Watts and Queena Chen, an ArtsConnection alum and current Teen Programs & Communications Manager. 

During the segment, Rachel and Queena spoke about the critical role arts education plays in shaping creative, confident, and capable young people across New York City. Queena shared her inspiring journey—from a high school student in ArtsConnection’s Teen Programs to a leader helping to shape them today. Rachel emphasized the importance of sustained funding and equitable access to ensure more students can benefit from transformative arts opportunities. 

This spotlight was a beautiful reminder of how arts education can truly come full circle—and why continued investment in youth creativity matters now more than ever. 

Coverage: PIX11 Morning News →  

Call your council member to support or visit the Round Table’s Advocacy Page