Blues in the Schools offers the opportunity for students of all ages to engage in multidisciplinary, whole-language learning  using the study of music, math, language arts, history, anthropology, and sociology in a hands-on approach celebrating creative self-expression. By bringing the blues genre into the classroom, students are exposed to these traditional subjects, while breaking down racial barriers and opening dialogue about cultural diversity.

Blues in the Schools can be appropriately tailored to the age of the students with creative cross-discipline curriculum. Subjects like music, art, English, and social studies are natural fits, while creative teachers can individually figure ways to tie Math, Science and Tech Ed to a BITS unit. For instance,  a simple activity like designing a CD package enlists art, English, and music disciplines. Should students be challenged to plan out the touring itinerary for a band, they will utilize math, geography, and language arts skills in their assignments. At the high school level, the in-depth study of the sharecropping system in the Mississippi Delta combines English, social studies, and music to deliver a very crucial understanding of the relationship between these social and cultural factors in the birth of the blues. The combinations of programs is unlimited and each educator has the freedom to construct a relevant lesson plan using blues as the framework.

Funding any sort of arts program outside of the standard school curriculum requires the creative search for sources.  We encourage teachers and school administrators to apply for local Arts Council grants.  Depending upon your school, there might be PTA money available for BITs programs. School Improvement Councils often put money aside for assembly programs and might be a viable source of funds for a school-wide program, especially during Black History month.  A local blues society or blues festival could help underwrite the cost. Check our affiliates map for Blues Societies in your area and reach out to develop relationships with their leadership.

More costly Artist-in-Residency programs might require the corporate sponsorship of a local business.  You might consider an evening concert in the community by your artist-in residence as a fundraiser to as part of a more appealing grant request.  There is no limitation to your own research and creativity in seeking funds.