Think Together Enriches Arts Education for Students in Paramount Unified School District

In a significant move to enhance arts education, Think Together, a leading nonprofit in California, has expanded its Arts Enrichment Accelerator in partnership with the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) to the Paramount Unified School District (PUSD). This collaboration aims to provide a diverse range of visual and performing arts programs, ensuring that students across Los Angeles and Orange Counties have access to quality arts education.

On June 5, 2025, the partnership was highlighted during a culminating event where students from Howard Tanner Elementary School showcased their talents in traditional ballet folklorico and mariachi music. This initiative marks a new chapter for arts education, enabling TK-8 students in PUSD to engage with professional teaching artists from OCSA during afterschool programs, spring break sessions, and summer activities. The hands-on experiences allow students not only to learn the intricacies of these artistic forms but also to delve into the cultural significance behind each art form.

Jaclyn Aviles, Senior Strategist of Innovations Lab at Think Together, emphasized the importance of such expansions in their programs. “These experiences empower students to discover their passions and build confidence that carries far beyond the academic space,” she stated. Through engaging classes, students learn about the origins of ballet folklorico dances and the historical context of mariachi music, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of these art forms.

This initiative is not limited to visual and performing arts. Students at Paularino Elementary School in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District also participated in a culinary arts pilot program, where they learned valuable skills related to nutrition, recipe development, and ingredient combinations. Such diverse offerings underscore Think Together's commitment to holistic education.

Since its launch in 2023, the Arts Enrichment Accelerator program has successfully served over 3,000 students from various school districts, including Orange Unified, Chino Valley, Newport-Mesa, and now Paramount Unified. The goal of this expansion is to foster creativity and opportunity, allowing students to express themselves artistically and explore potential career options in the arts.

Brian Stevens, Director of Community Engagement at OCSA, shared insights on the collaborative approach, stating, “Community involvement is crucial in addressing the arts challenges we face not only in Southern California but also throughout the state.” He highlighted that with partners like Think Together, there is a greater capacity to serve a larger number of students effectively.

The expansive initiative aims to keep students engaged even during non-instructional days, thus maximizing their learning opportunities outside standard classrooms. The Arts Enrichment Accelerator will be continuing through the summer to ensure sustained involvement from students, with plans to include other districts like Lynwood Unified School District in the fall.

At the heart of Think Together’s mission is the aspiration for all students, especially those from historically marginalized communities, to graduate with a full array of life options available to them. The partnership with OCSA is a vital step towards this vision, ensuring that students are given the platform to explore a myriad of possibilities and pursue bright futures.

With Think Together and OCSA committed to continuing this cultural enrichment program, students are not just learning arts; they are building confidence, understanding their heritage, and preparing for brighter futures ahead. This expanded access to quality arts education exemplifies how community partnerships can effectively support student development and success.

For more information on Think Together's programs or to get involved, visit Think Together's website.