Columbia, SC — SC Whitmore School teachers and leadership recently attended the Arts Education Forum in Columbia, where they joined educators and advocates from across the state to celebrate and support the vital role of arts education. The SC Whitmore team was proud to support Dr. Cleary, who is serving as an advisor for the SC Arts in Education Task Force.
“At SC Whitmore School, the arts are not an add-on—they are an essential part of how students learn, express themselves, and grow,” said Kim Dunbar, Executive Director of SC Whitmore School. “Our flexible learning model allows students to fully explore their creativity while still meeting academic goals, and events like the Arts Education Forum reinforce why that work matters.”
SC Whitmore School offers a range of arts courses taught by SC-certified faculty, including Introduction to Art, Digital Media, Music Appreciation, and Theatre I. These courses are designed to fit within the school’s self-paced, flexible schedule—empowering students to pursue artistic passions beyond traditional school hours. SC Whitmore School is continuing to grow the arts electives offered and adding Theatre II and a Dance History class as electives for next school year.
Dr. Christine Cleary, Arts Education Advisory Member and Teacher/Curriculum Designer at SC Whitmore School, emphasized the importance of access and opportunity in arts education. “When students are given the time, flexibility, and professional instruction to explore the arts, it opens doors to confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills,” she said. “SC Whitmore’s approach ensures that the arts remain accessible and meaningful for every learner.
The Arts Education Forum provided an opportunity for SC Whitmore School to connect with fellow educators, advocate for creative learning opportunities, and reaffirm its commitment to innovative, student-centered education.