The Berkman Elementary Arts Integration Academy (AIA) winter showcase was a celebration of the arts with a night full of performances from Berkman’s after school enrichment classes including dance, theater, violin, drums, and piano.

All Berkman AIA students had art work on display at the interactive art gallery where students and families were encouraged to be creative and make art of their own. Additionally, all grade levels had their own hands-on activity showcasing some of the arts integration strategies and lessons they have been working on this school year. Finally, all attendees were able to stop by and grab a snack created by the after school enrichment cooking class.

Matt Schuppert, Berkman Elementary arts integration coordinator, said the event was truly a celebration of learning and those who showed up at the event were incredibly supportive.

“It was so amazing to see so many students, families, and community members come out and support our showcase night,” Schuppert said. “The night was filled with joy and it’s clear to me that we are doing some truly amazing work.”

There were a large number of proud parents at the event whose students participate in the after school enrichment clubs.

“I had the best time tonight and I am so impressed with everything going on here,” said the parent of a third and fourth grade student. “ Being able to see my girls get up and perform made me so proud I can’t wait for the next one.”

Berkman Principal, Kathy Cawthron, said she is proud of the progress the campus has made since becoming an AIA in the fall.

In August 2016, Round Rock ISD transformed Berkman and Wells Branch elementary schools into Arts Integration Academies) exposing students to a wide variety of arts strategies integrated into all subjects. Both campuses underwent facilities upgrades, including the addition of a stage, spaces for music and dance, and flexible learning environments. Berkman is one of the district’s oldest and most historic campuses and is situated in the heart of the City of Round Rock’s emerging arts hub.

“The Berkman AIA Showcase event far surpassed my expectations,” Cawthorn said. “It was my proudest moment as a principal to see so many family and community members come to support of our amazing students showing off their learning. I love that our students are getting to participate in such a rich variety of enrichment experiences and find their voices, creativity, and talents. I know these experiences will make a huge impact on the lives of our students.”