At Lakewood Catholic Academy, we believe in nurturing the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. While core subjects like math, science, social studies and language arts are essential, the visual and performing arts play an equally vital role in a well-rounded education. From painting and sculpture to music, and theater, the arts are a dynamic and transformative part of our curriculum, especially in the formative years of elementary school.
The visual and performing arts help young learners develop critical skills that extend far beyond the art room or the stage. Creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking—the four Cs of 21st-century learning—are deeply embedded in every artistic experience. When a first grade saint learns to mix colors or a sixth grade saint performs in a play, they are not just expressing themselves creatively; they are also building confidence, discipline, and empathy.
At Lakewood Catholic Academy, our arts program is designed to inspire joy, self-expression, and exploration. In the visual arts, students are encouraged to experiment with a wide range of materials and techniques. Whether it’s drawing from observation, sculpting with clay, or creating digital art, these experiences nurture fine motor skills and visual-spatial reasoning. More importantly, they give students a safe space to make mistakes, try new things, and develop their own unique voices.
The performing arts at LCA are equally enriching. Through music classes, students learn rhythm, melody, and harmony, all while improving memory and focus. Singing in the choir or playing an instrument teaches students how to listen, work as a team, and strive for excellence. Theater introduces them to storytelling, public speaking, and emotional expression—skills that enhance their confidence and social awareness.
One of the greatest strengths of our arts program is its integration with our Catholic identity. Students learn to see beauty as an expression of God’s presence in the world. Our students explore their faith in deeply personal and imaginative ways. The arts become not only a form of communication but also a way to grow spiritually and understand their place in God’s creation.
Arts education at the elementary level is also closely tied to academic achievement. Numerous studies have shown that students who participate in the arts perform better in reading, writing, and math. They are more likely to stay engaged in school, demonstrate higher levels of motivation, and develop stronger problem-solving abilities.
At Lakewood Catholic Academy, we are proud to provide our students with a rich, vibrant arts education that celebrates imagination, nurtures talent, and builds character. The skills they develop in the visual and performing arts will serve them throughout their lives, both in and out of the classroom. By placing the arts at the heart of our curriculum, we affirm our belief that every child is a unique creation of God—with a voice worth hearing and a vision worth sharing.
