The National Core Arts Standards (NCAS) provide a clear, structured framework for high-quality art education. By focusing on creating, presenting, responding, and connecting, these standards help educators deliver a consistent and impactful K–8 art curriculum that supports creativity and lifelong learning.

In Silicon Valley, innovation extends beyond tech campuses into K–8 classrooms where schools are merging digital tools with standards-based art education. From 3D printing to digital drawing, students are exploring modern mediums while building creative problem-solving skills—all grounded in national art standards.

Art in Action’s new Art + Wellness Series offers simple, mindful art activities designed to support emotional health and creative expression in grades 4–8. Perfect for Mental Health Awareness Month, these process-based lessons promote self-awareness, stress relief, and resilience—one Spark at a time.

In Silicon Valley, where tech reigns supreme, art education is more vital than ever. Explore how creativity, emotional intelligence, and visual thinking—nurtured through K–8 art curriculum—equip kids for success in a digital world.

Discover how integrating art into math, science, and history can boost student engagement, deepen understanding, and meet academic goals. See real examples of how K–8 classrooms bring learning to life through cross-curricular art education.

Bay Area schools are leading the charge in prioritizing arts education in 2025, thanks to Prop 28 funding. Learn how local districts are investing in K–8 visual arts programs that support creativity, academic success, and whole-child development.

Art is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Discover why access to visual arts is a right every child deserves, and how schools, families, and communities can work together to champion creativity through a K–8 art curriculum.

Art in Action’s OBJECT:ART 2025 gala was an inspiring evening of creativity and community. Thanks to our generous supporters, we raised over $158,000—including $40,000 for scholarships that will bring art education and supplies to more than 1,100 students in need.

A great elementary art curriculum does more than teach technique—it builds creativity, empathy, and confidence. Learn what to look for in a high-quality K–8 art program for schools, afterschool, or homeschool settings.

Discover why investing in visual arts is one of the smartest decisions school leaders can make in 2025. Learn how a strong K-8 art curriculum improves academics, well-being, and 21st-century skills.

Enjoying Art in Action’s standards-aligned K–8 art curriculum? Help us spread the joy of art education for kids by referring a school to join our creative community! Through our easy referral program, you'll earn rewards while helping more students access engaging, high-quality visual arts instruction—perfect for classrooms, homeschool, or afterschool settings.

Looking to strengthen your K–8 art curriculum with dedicated funding? California’s Prop 28 opens up exciting opportunities for schools to invest in high-quality art education for kids. Whether you're running an in-school program, homeschool group, or afterschool initiative, learn how you can use Prop 28 to bring engaging, standards-aligned art curriculum into your classrooms.

Looking to showcase student creativity with a school art show? This easy guide walks you through every step—from organizing artwork to creating an immersive gallery experience. Whether you're a classroom teacher, homeschool parent, or afterschool coordinator using a K–8 art curriculum, you'll find practical tips to make your event meaningful and memorable.

Looking for a fun and meaningful way to celebrate National Art Day on April 15? Download a free K–8 art curriculum lesson from Art in Action! Perfect for classrooms, homeschool families, and afterschool programs, this hands-on activity introduces kids to artist Paul Klee while supporting creativity, cultural awareness, and visual literacy. Explore our engaging art curriculum for kids and spark imagination today!

Honoring a Legacy of Creativity and Impact
At this year’s OBJECT:ART 2025 fundraiser, we proudly presented the Art Visionary Award to longtime arts advocate and Art in Action pioneer, Betsy Halaby. From shaping our early curriculum to championing creativity in classrooms for nearly four decades, Betsy’s legacy reminds us how imagination truly moves the mind—and changes lives. Read on to learn more about her extraordinary contributions to art education and the special moment that brought our community together in celebration.

Bringing art into your classroom doesn’t have to be complicated. With Art in Action’s K–8 art curriculum, educators get time-saving, standards-aligned resources—no art degree required. Whether you teach in a traditional classroom, homeschool, or afterschool setting, explore how ready-made lessons and easy assessments make art integration seamless and impactful for all students.

Painting is more than a fun classroom activity—it’s a powerful tool for child development. This blog explores the cognitive, emotional, and academic benefits of visual arts education and how K–8 art curriculum programs like Art in Action support creative growth. Whether you teach in a classroom, homeschool, or run an afterschool program, discover how painting can transform learning for every child.

Meet Avery, a rising junior at Lick-Wilmerding High School in San Francisco, who has been making waves in the community through their passion for art and volunteerism. Avery’s journey with art began at a young age when Art in Action visited their school, sparking a lifelong love for creativity. Now, they are giving back to the organization that ignited their artistic passion.

Last month at the Sandpiper Community Center in Redwood City, I experienced the joy of the Art in Action Annual Community Art Show for the first time. This vibrant one-day exhibit displayed the remarkable talents of students across the Bay Area, transforming the venue into a lively gallery of colorful artworks and compelling stories.

We are deeply saddened to share about the passing of an iconic artist and storyteller, Faith Ringgold, who left us on April 13, 2024, at the age of 93. Known for her vivid story quilts that weave rich narratives about African American life and history, Faith's art transcended the confines of traditional media, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations.