In late April 2025, Culver City School District (CCUSD) welcomed a group of distinguished guests to its campuses for an exclusive tour highlighting the district’s innovative arts education programs. The event was organized in collaboration with the LA Department of Arts and Culture and the LA County Arts Ed Collective, showcasing how CCUSD integrates creativity into its curriculum. From video game design to ceramics, students demonstrated their skills across various disciplines, offering a glimpse into the vibrant world of artistic learning.
Heather Moses, the school district’s arts coordinator, emphasized the importance of this showcase as it highlighted the benefits of long-term funding through grants. Sally Unsworth, Culver City’s Cultural Affairs Manager, praised the e-sports team and animation classes, while teachers like Craig Wisner shared insights into the deeper value of art beyond technical skill development. Students expressed that creative education plays a pivotal role in shaping their academic and personal growth.
Creative Learning Across Disciplines
This section delves into the diverse range of arts classes offered at CCUSD, emphasizing how each program fosters creativity and innovation among students. From video game design and animation to ceramics and filmmaking, these courses provide hands-on experiences that inspire young minds. By integrating technology and traditional techniques, educators aim to prepare students for future careers in the arts while nurturing their creative potential.
The multi-campus tour revealed the breadth of CCUSD’s commitment to arts education. At Farragut Elementary, Culver City Middle School, and Culver City High School, students engaged in activities such as designing characters in the 2-D Animation class, crafting ceramic pieces under the guidance of teacher Craig Wisner, and experimenting with lighting techniques in Holly Gable’s film course. Each classroom buzzed with energy as students applied theoretical knowledge to practical projects. Video Game Design and e-sports teams showcased cutting-edge digital creations, reflecting the district’s dedication to modernizing its curriculum. Through these interactive sessions, students not only honed their artistic abilities but also developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Building Bridges Through Art Education
Beyond teaching specific skills, CCUSD’s arts programs foster social and emotional development, creating meaningful connections between students and their communities. Heather Moses plays a vital role in coordinating resources and ensuring equitable access to these transformative experiences. Her efforts exemplify the district’s holistic approach to education, where creativity serves as a foundation for personal growth.
Moses explained her mission as bridging gaps between educational foundations, businesses, and government entities to sustain robust arts programs. During the tour, she highlighted success stories from each featured class, illustrating the profound impact of these initiatives. For instance, Amira Warren and Erika Kusano, representing Visual Arts and Architecture respectively, testified to the significance of creative education in their lives. Warren articulated that while academics are crucial, creativity equips students with tools to tackle complex challenges. This sentiment resonates throughout CCUSD, reinforcing the belief that art is integral to a well-rounded education. As the morning concluded, student testimonials underscored the lasting influence of these programs, leaving visitors inspired by the district’s vision for nurturing tomorrow’s innovators.