The ARTS are an important part of St. Luke’s School, and they encompass so much, both in the curriculum of the classroom and as an extra-curricular activity. The ARTS can include painting, sculpture, music, theater, literature, etc., considered as a group of activities done by people with skill and imagination. As part of our regular school day curriculum Art and Music are both taught in our beautiful and spacious studio space located on the second floor of the old convent building.

The Art Program is an integral component of the academic, religious, cultural, and social experience at St. Luke’s School. Preschool students do not meet formally for art class, rather art is incorporated into their daily activity. Students from kindergarten through 8th grade meet once a week. Students are educated in the elements of art and are able to utilize various materials, techniques, and processes. History, culture, and religion are a fundamental and intrinsic aspect to their creative experience. The art teacher often collaborates with classroom teachers, so a connection is made between art and core classes. Our studio space enriches each child’s experience and encourages creative expression.

The Music Program at St. Luke’s School is offered formally to students in kindergarten through 8th grade. The preschool music program is integrated throughout the core curriculum. Students in kindergarten through 8th grade meet once per week for music class. Each class is taught a strong foundation of music elements. The curriculum, based on Rhode Island Grade Level Expectations, features a balance of theory, expressions, and performance. Music classes also stress an appreciation for liturgical music.

The Performing Arts take place both as part of the school day as well as an extra-curricular activity. One of the highlights of the year is our Christmas Pageant which involves all students in kindergarten- grade 8. It is performed twice so that grandparents, friends, and family can attend the dress rehearsal during the day and so that we can accommodate all immediate family members for the evening performance. The Christmas Pageant is a play, which is different every year, which portrays some aspect of the birth of Jesus. The speaking roles are performed primarily by our 8 th graders, but the pageant also includes beautiful holiday and spiritual songs performed by the entire school. The highlight of the evening comes toward the end when our Kindergarteners process onto the stage, dressed as angels, and perform a few songs by themselves. It is touching and poignant ending and there is usually not a dry eye in the house!

In the spring, our students prepare and perform a musical production. This extra-curricular activity is the culmination of the year for our Drama Club. This musical, which contains both spoken and singing parts, is performed like the Christmas Pageant with two performances to accommodate the demand. Some of the recent performances include Beauty and the Beast and Charlie’s Chocolate Factory.

The Arts are Alive and Well at St. Luke’s School.