Arts in Education

October 2026 Newsletter

Discovery is at the heart of every creative experience. Through our Art, Music, and Theatre Consortiums, educators have opportunities to explore new ideas, encounter new perspectives, and discover fresh approaches to teaching and learning. Each consortium invites participants to step beyond the familiar, connect with colleagues, and experience the arts in new ways.

Click the links below for more information on the Arts in Education Consortium offerings.

AIE Highlights

Theatre Jam

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

November 6, 2026

8:45 AM to 1:30 PM

University at Buffalo

​​Is theatre your jam? Join us for a one-day event that brings high school students together to explore all aspects of theatre through engaging workshops in dance, vocals, improv, design, and more. Students will collaborate, build new skills, and connect with peers who share their passion for the performing arts. It’s a fun, high-energy day designed to inspire creativity both onstage and behind the scenes.

THEATRE JAM

Young Minds

NEW FOR 2026-2027!

Theme: Inside & Out: Who Am I?

The Young Minds Showcase is an opportunity for students in grades K-6 to publicly share their ideas in a public forum. Students may share their ideas in a modality of their choosing or as guided by their teacher. Participating teachers will have the ability to submit up to 10 students works that meet the criteria of the provided rubrics. All work will be reviewed to be considered to be displayed or presented at the 2027 Young Minds Showcase at the Buffalo Museum of Science.

YOUNG MINDS

Art as Expression

NEW PD DATE

December 7, 2026

9:00 AM to 2:30 PM

Erie 1 BOCES

Participants will explore how artmaking can support expression, reflection, self-awareness, and well-being. Through hands-on creative experiences, art therapy directives, and case studies, educators will examine how artistic processes foster emotional expression, connection, and student well-being while gaining practical resources and community connections to support creative practice in their schools.

REGISTER HERE

Student Event Grant Offerings

The Erie 1 BOCES Educational Foundation is proud to offer two grant opportunities that will fully cover the cost of up to two registrations each for participation in the Erie 1 BOCES Student Art Challenge and the Erie 1 BOCES Arts in Education Clay Throw Down. These annual events bring together student artists, educators, and community members to showcase creativity, collaborate across schools, and celebrate the impact of the arts in education.

These grants support equitable access to arts opportunities by removing financial barriers for two participating districts per event. Priority for each grant will be given to one Erie 1 BOCES internal educator, and one Erie 1 BOCES component district educator.

Submission Deadline: October 30, 2026

Notification Date: November 13, 2026

Upcoming AIE Professional Development

​​​​​October 13, 2026 - Educator Hour: Oxford Pennant

October 20, 2026 - Visual Art Educators Consortium (Day 1 of 4)

November 5, 2026 - Art as Language: Inclusive Arts Integration Across the Curriculum for Diverse Learners

November 12, 2026 - Music Educators Consortium (Day 1 of 2)

November 12, 2026 - Educator Hour: Starlight Studio & Art Gallery

December 1, 2026 - Exploring and Implementing the IAAP

December 7, 2026 - Art as Expression: Supporting Mental Health Through Creativity