Spark Arts celebrates decade of equitable arts integration in Missoula schools

The Missoula County Public Schools (MCPS) Board of Trustees meeting held on April 22, 2025, featured a comprehensive update from Spark Arts, an organization dedicated to enhancing arts education within the district. The executive director of Spark Arts, who has been with the organization for nearly seven years, highlighted the significant progress made since its inception in 2013, particularly in addressing inequities in arts access among schools.

The meeting began with a review of Spark Arts' mission to provide equitable arts experiences across the district. The director noted that prior to Spark's involvement, disparities existed due to varying levels of support from Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) and other community contributions. Spark Arts has since worked collaboratively with various stakeholders, including the city of Missoula, local businesses, parents, and the University of Montana, to ensure that all students have access to quality arts education.

Key milestones in the development of arts programming were discussed. In 2014, Spark Arts launched its programming, which expanded to include middle school offerings by 2015. The introduction of additional visual art teachers and district-wide training for educators in arts integration were pivotal moments in enhancing the curriculum. The director emphasized the importance of integrating arts with core subjects, allowing students to express their understanding through creative forms.

The meeting also covered recent initiatives, including the establishment of an arts integration committee and the creation of a residency directory for vetted teaching artists. These efforts aim to standardize arts integration practices and provide teachers with resources to enhance their instruction. The director mentioned that Spark Arts became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2022, further solidifying its commitment to the community.

Looking ahead, the organization is focused on developing a strategic plan to ensure continued equity in arts education. This includes assessing the evolving needs of students and teachers, as well as exploring financial sustainability and program expansion.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for ongoing collaboration among all partners involved in arts education, reinforcing the belief that a strong partnership between Spark Arts and MCPS is essential for fostering a vibrant arts culture in schools. The next steps will involve implementing the strategic plan and continuing to engage the community in supporting arts integration initiatives.