District arts coordinator highlights expanded visual and performing arts partnerships and student showcases

Karina Culvert, the district's visual and performing arts coordinator, told the board the program expanded partnerships, field trips and in‑school offerings this year and that next year the program anticipates growing venues and continued community collaboration.

“From our vibrant classroom activities to live performances and museum visits, it has been a transformative year for all of our students,” Culvert said, introducing teachers who brought student work to display.

Culvert said this was her first year in the coordinator role and thanked school leaders and staff for support. She named several partners and activities: a New West Symphony performance at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center for fourth graders; a live Shakespeare performance at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza for third and fifth graders; Getty visits for sixth graders; a Nutcracker performance for third grade; and hands‑on visits to the Santa Paula Art Museum for second graders. Dance partners listed included Hip Hop Mindset, Dance for Wellness and Breathe Foundation for Artists.

Junior high teachers presented samples of student work. One teacher urged the board to “celebrate their growth, not just as students, but as true artists,” and school leaders said the program has expanded both in‑day and after‑school opportunities including theater, band, mariachi, dance and visual art.

The district circulated a brochure summarizing the program and noted logistical support from site principals who provided classroom and storage space. The item was informational; no board action was recorded on the arts presentation.