Arts Education in Chapel Hill–Carrboro City Schools is grounded in the belief that the arts are a fundamental component of a well-rounded education and essential to the development of the whole child. Our programs foster creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural understanding while aligning with district and state standards. We are guided by our core values of Engagement, Social Justice Action, Collective Efficacy, Wellness, and Joy; principles that shape not only what we teach, but how we teach. Through the arts, we "Move Together" as a district community, committed to equity, access, and excellence for every student.
The district’s instructional practices integrate key support systems "BIG ROCKS" to ensure that every learner thrives. AVID strategies are embedded within arts instruction to promote organization, inquiry, and reflection, preparing students for success beyond the classroom. Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) provide structures for collaboration among educators to design, assess, and refine equitable and rigorous arts experiences. Within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), we provide differentiated instruction and targeted interventions that meet individual student needs while promoting academic growth and emotional wellness. Through these aligned systems, Chapel Hill–Carrboro City Schools ensures that Arts Education remains a dynamic, inclusive, and integral part of every child’s educational journey.
Learn more about our district’s commitment to quality arts education. Review our CHCCS Art Education Fact Sheet for comprehensive information about our program and answers to frequently asked questions.
Students in North Carolina have the opportunity to earn one or more endorsements on their high school diploma. These endorsements recognize focused study in specific areas that prepare students for success in college, careers, or specialized fields. While endorsements are optional, they highlight a student’s achievements and areas of concentration.
The NC Arts Endorsement acknowledges students who have demonstrated advanced study and achievement in the arts through coursework and participation in arts programs. This distinction celebrates creative accomplishment and a commitment to arts education.
