Pasco students showcase music, theater and visual art during Fine Arts in Our Schools Month

Tom Viking, senior supervisor for fine arts in the Office of Leading and Learning, told the Pasco County School Board on Feb. 25 that district students are on track to appear in more than 100 art displays and shows this school year and that one middle‑school student, Riley Bauer of 7 Springs Middle School, is the winner of a State Capitol art contest currently on display at the Florida State Capitol.

"The arts feed our souls like nothing else can," Viking said, describing district participation in exhibits including the Pasco Fair, Dade City Judicial Art Walks and the Congressional Art Contest. He said four district finalists also have work displayed in a state representative’s office.

Viking outlined expansion in music, dance and theater offerings: nearly 2,000 musical performances per year across elementary and secondary schools; 11 schools offering dance courses; frequent thespian awards and state festival qualifiers; and district plans for a first district‑sponsored all‑county orchestra event in early April.

Board members and administrators also highlighted improvements to performing arts centers. Viking said River Ridge has completed a recent remodel and Wesley Chapel is scheduled for seating, carpet and stage upgrades this summer. The district announced the new Florida Seal of Fine Arts, a Department of Education recognition that will be attached to graduates’ diplomas for students who meet exemplary benchmarks in performing or visual arts.

The meeting included live student performances representing early learning through high school, which board members described as a highlight of the presentation. Viking closed by thanking the board and staff for supporting arts education in Pasco County.