ArtsSmarts is a national program designed to bring artists and educators, schools and communities together to work with students on projects of local significance. ArtsSmarts is administered through a partnership of the Department of Education, the Department of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour, the three Island school boards, and community and arts organizations.

“The ArtsSmarts program encourages students to uncover hidden talents, and discover new ways of learning through projects incorporating arts and culture,” said Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour Minister Carolyn Bertram. “ArtsSmarts is a wonderful opportunity for parents, teachers, artists, volunteers and community sponsors to come together and share their talents and time with students. This investment in our youth will help them develop an appreciation for arts and culture and will contribute to their evolution as creative thinkers.”

In 2008, 11 new projects have been approved. They involve students in grades 1 to 12 from schools throughout the Island.

Education Minister Gerard Greenan says interest in ArtsSmarts and the quality of the projects grows stronger from year to year. “This year, we are funding a diverse group of projects which are based on very innovative ideas and approaches. There is no doubt that when the projects are completed, the students will have had some very interesting experiences while learning concepts covered in our provincial curriculum,” said Minister Greenan.