Latest news for the Nebraskans for the Arts
Latest news for the Nebraskans for the Arts
The U.S. Department of Education's Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is an overhaul of the federal government's footprint in education policy, allowing states to determine their own plans on everything from testing and teacher quality, to low-performing schools.
States still have to submit accountability plans to the U.S. Department of Education. The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) has been working on how it will address the requirements of ESSA in a way that complements their Strategic Plan.
The NDE is asking for citizen input on their final ESSA draft. Your input can help NDE in their prioritization and funding of arts education - an important ESSA component to help students receive a well-rounded education.
You can provide input by taking a 10 minute online survey at the NDE website HERE and let NDE know that arts education programs and teachers should be included for eligibility of federal ESSA funds.


The Bone Creek Museum is hosting an exhibition of 150 artworks for Nebraska's 150th. The collection is at the Museum until July 30, 2017. The exhibition is also online. Artworks are available for purchase online or at the Museum until July 29, though the art will be availalbe for online viewing following the close of the show.


Nebraska's Official Statewide Watercolor/Watermedia Competition is open to all artists with a current Nebraska address. Submissions are being accepted until June 30, 2017. The exhibition is August 1 - September 30, 2017 at the Seward Civic Center, hosted by the Seward Arts Council, Red Path Gallery, Seward S150 Committee and GFWG. 
Two more Nebraska Arts Council ART CHAT sessions remain that you can register for. Anyone interested in building a more creative and vibrant community using the arts is invited to attend a day of networking, discussions and art performances in Scottsbluff on July 11 or Kearney on July 13. Spend a day with your peers to celebrate the good work you're doing or get the support to navigate a difficult situation. Travel subsidies of $50 to $100 to those who must travel more than 75 miles one-way to attend are available. Register online here
Love the Arts in Nebraska? Join Nebraskans for the Arts!
Nebraskans for the Arts relies on you, our supporters, to do the advocacy we do and keep the arts and creativity growing in Nebraska. Membership starts at only $25. DONATE NOW and help us share the importance of the arts for better schools and better communities.
Spotlight on Student Achievement in the Arts
Nebraskans for the Arts honors a Nebraska student who has made outstanding achievements in the arts.
June Spotlight
A dance student with many accolades, Jacob Montey is part of a growing movement of tap and hip hop dance in Nebraska.     
Jacob started dancing at a young age and excelled immediately. His abilities to be a quick learner and outstanding performer led to him being a part of the B.O.Y.S. (Bring Out Your Swag) performing group – Lincoln’s first boys-only performing dance group.   
It’s Jacob’s positive impact on the next generation of boys that’s truly amazing, says his nominator, Nebraskans for the Arts board member, Vijay Olander. “Jacob’s determination and passion for dance is far beyond his own performances; he assists in teaching at our studio and master classes outside of Lincoln on a regular basis.”   
Jacob believes dance is an important resource for improving himself. "It has allowed me to be more social and have more appreciation for the arts. I have gotten the opportunity to meet many people at the competitions we have traveled to. I'm grateful for my teammates and teachers who have shown me that there is more to dance than meets the eye."    
In addition to his dance accolades, Jacob is a Lincoln East High School Honor Roll Student and became a BMX expert by the age of 7.
Nominate a Student for our Spotlight - We are seeking nominations of Nebraska students for this program. Please go to our website and help us honor a student in your school or organization's programs that is excelling in the arts.
Here is a simple way for you to support our activities when you shop or eat - at no cost to you! Every purchase you make at participating businesses returns 5% to help advocate for the arts in Nebraska. 
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