Howard County Arts Council Announces Head StART in ART Program

In FY2000, the Howard County Arts Council developed a partnership with the Ellicott City Head Start Center to establish an artist in residence program. This partnership, Head StART in ART, provides the children with an in-depth, hands-on artistic experience they might otherwise never have and ensures them access to the arts. Many are introduced to the arts for the first time and experience the joy and wonder of artistic expression. The opportunity for such an experience during these formative years can have a key impact on the children's future appreciation of and involvement in the arts, as well as improve language learning skills.

InterAct Story Theatre teaching artists Maria Tripodi (dance), Ali Oliver (music and drama), and Julie Wolf (drama) will direct students in a residency beginning October 14th in an exploration of literature through song, performance, and dance. The arts-based learning experiences in each session are specifically designed to promote emergent literacy skills, oral language skills, and key development skills among the early childhood population. Students will participate in a final performance at the Howard County Center for the Arts at 8510 High Ridge Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043.

The Head Start Program is a federally funded program that has been helping low-income families and pre-school children across the country since 1965. Head Start offers pre-school programs for 3, 4, and 5 year-old children from low-income families by providing them with a stimulating and educational experience in a group setting. This worthwhile program gives the children a "head start" towards a successful future.

Please call 410-313-2787 or see the website for more information: www.hocoarts.org.