Fine & Performing Arts
Welcome to Boise School District Fine & Performing Arts Department
The Boise School District is proud to offer a wide range of Fine and Performing Arts opportunities for students, including music, visual arts, and theater. These programs play an important role in supporting creativity, self-expression, collaboration, and academic growth for students at all grade levels. Whether a student is picking up an instrument for the first time, exploring visual arts, or performing on stage, the district is committed to providing meaningful arts experiences that enrich learning and build confidence. The following frequently asked questions are designed to help parents and families better understand the opportunities available and how students can get involved in Fine and Performing Arts programs.
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Timberline HS Symphonic Band -
Capital HS Performing Arts -
Borah HS Orchestra
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Our vision is to create a dynamic and inclusive environment where students in band, orchestra, choir, theater arts, debate, and speech can explore and develop their unique interests. We aim to nurture creativity, self-expression, and collaboration, empowering students to become confident communicators, performers, and lifelong learners.
We set high expectations for artistic excellence and personal growth. Students are encouraged to push their creative boundaries while learning discipline and teamwork. We believe in a supportive community where every student is challenged to excel and express themselves authentically.
The Boise School District is committed to providing enriching experiences in the performing arts and communication, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive both personally and artistically within the broader community. -
“We graduate each student prepared for college, career, and citizenship.”
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“Educating Today for a Better Tomorrow”
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Our Core Values guide our conduct and work:
Respect
Dignity
Honesty
Responsibility
Teamwork -
- Student
Provide student performers with excellent artistic experiences, where they build skills, confidence, and character, setting them up for a future contributing to the arts in their community.
- Activities Teachers
Recruit, develop, and retain high-caliber faculty and assistants whose methods align with our district activities philosophy.
- Activities Program Development
Build and maintain both vertical and horizontal alignment and engagement within our elementary, junior high, high school, and community programs.
- Performing Arts Facilities, Equipment, Operations, and Finance
Acquire and maintain high-quality equipment appropriate for the performance level, and strive to build and maintain first-class performing arts facilities and performing arts programs to promote a positive and effective learning environment.
- Community, Conference, and State Engagement
Partner with local community groups to support our shared activities vision and the development of our students. Work in partnership with governing bodies as well as with local, state, and other applicable organizations to further our common goals and missions.
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The Boise School District Music Department gratefully accepts donations of musical instruments to support student learning and performance opportunities.
Individuals or organizations interested in donating instruments are encouraged to contact the Music Department Administrative Assistant to confirm current acceptance needs and approved instrument types. The Administrative Assistant can also assist with arranging delivery or coordinating pickup of donated instruments.
Please call 208-472-3232 for more information and to begin the donation process.
Thank you for supporting music education and helping provide valuable opportunities for our students.
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The Boise School District’s Fine Arts program helps students explore creativity while building connections to history, culture, and the world around them. Through hands-on artistic experiences and thoughtful reflection, students develop imagination, critical-thinking skills, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives. By integrating the arts with other subjects and partnering with community resources, our program supports well-rounded learners prepared to express ideas, collaborate with others, and see new possibilities in their learning and their lives. 🎨✨
Frequently Asked Questions
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Music, Art, Theater
Boise School District1. What Fine & Performing Arts programs are offered in Boise School District?
The district offers a variety of arts programs including music, visual arts, and theater. Students may participate in programs such as band, orchestra, choir, theater productions, and visual arts classes depending on their grade level and school.
2. When do students start receiving music and art instruction?
All elementary students receive music instruction, and visual art is part of the elementary curriculum. Additional arts opportunities expand in junior high and high school with electives and performance groups.
3. What types of music programs are available?
Music programs may include:
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Band
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Orchestra
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Choir
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Music theory (in some high schools)
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Honor groups and special performances
Students may begin instrumental programs in later elementary or middle school depending on the instrument and school program.
4. What visual arts classes are offered?
Students learn a variety of artistic skills and concepts including:
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Drawing and painting
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Pottery and sculpture
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Photography
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Art history and criticism
The curriculum helps students develop creativity, cultural awareness, and critical-thinking skills.
5. Are theater and performing arts opportunities available?
Yes. Many middle and high schools offer:
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Theater classes
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School plays and musicals
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Technical theater (lighting, stage, sound)
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Acting and performance opportunities
Students may participate in productions during the school year depending on school offerings.
6. Do students need prior experience to join music or theater programs?
Most introductory classes do not require previous experience. Teachers provide instruction for beginners, and students can progress to more advanced classes as their skills grow.
7. Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes. Students often perform in:
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Concerts and recitals
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School plays or musicals
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Community arts events
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Honor ensembles and festivals
These events allow students to showcase their learning and build confidence.
8. Do students need to provide their own instruments or supplies?
In many cases:
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Students may rent or purchase instruments for band or orchestra.
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Some schools have limited instruments available for use.
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Art classes typically provide basic materials, though special projects may require small supply fees.
Parents should check with the school or teacher for details.
9. Are there costs associated with arts programs?
Some programs may include:
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Instrument rental or purchase
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Course or material fees
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Performance attire or activity fees
Schools strive to keep programs accessible and may offer assistance for families when needed.
10. Can parents volunteer or support arts programs?
Yes. Parent involvement is encouraged through:
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Booster clubs or parent groups
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Volunteering at performances or events
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Fundraising activities
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Donations of instruments or supplies
Parent support helps enhance arts opportunities for students.
11. How do arts programs benefit students?
Research shows participation in the arts can support:
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Academic achievement
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Creativity and critical thinking
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Collaboration and teamwork
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Confidence and self-expression
The district considers arts education an important part of a well-rounded education.
12. Who can parents contact for questions about arts programs?
Parents can contact:
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Their school’s music, art, or theater teacher
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The Fine & Performing Arts Department at the district office
Staff can provide details about courses, performances, and participation opportunities.
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We offer a range of programs, including special education, English language development, gifted education, and counseling services to support diverse student needs.
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Safety is our top priority. We have secure campus entry points, regular emergency drills, and on-site staff trained in emergency response. Our visitor management system ensures that all guests are signed in and monitored.
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Our elementary school day typically begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m., with after-school programs available for families needing extended care.
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Registration is straightforward and can be done online or in person at the school office. Required documents include proof of residence, birth certificate, and immunization records.
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We welcome family involvement! Parents can volunteer in classrooms, join the PTA, participate in family nights, or attend school events. Your involvement strengthens our school community and supports your child's learning experience.
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Technology is integrated to enhance learning, with resources such as interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software that support students' digital literacy and engagement.
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Core Values
Our core values promote a well-rounded approach, emphasizing both personal and interpersonal development, which are critical at the elementary level.
Respect
We foster a culture of respect where every child, teacher, and family member feels valued. Respect for oneself, others, and the environment is essential to creating a welcoming and supportive community for all.
Curiosity
We believe that curiosity is the foundation of learning. By encouraging students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and embrace challenges, we help them develop a love for discovery that will last a lifetime.
Kindness
Kindness is at the heart of our school community. We strive to teach empathy, compassion, and generosity, helping students understand the importance of treating others with care and building positive relationships.
Welcome to Boise School District Music Department
School Profile
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to nurture a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where every child is valued, empowered, and inspired to learn. We are dedicated to fostering curiosity, building foundational skills, and encouraging a love for lifelong learning.
Grades: Kindergarten – 5th
Enrollment: 830 students
Principal: Principal Name
Assistant Principal: Assistant Principal Name
School Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:45 PM
Content Supervisor Message
Welcome to the Boise School District Fine & Performing Arts program.
On behalf of our teachers, staff, and students, I am proud to welcome you to a community that values creativity, expression, and the important role the arts play in a well-rounded education. Our music, visual arts, and theater programs provide students with opportunities to explore their talents, build confidence, collaborate with peers, and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
From a student’s first experiences with music and art in elementary school to advanced performance and artistic opportunities in junior high and high school, the Boise School District is committed to providing meaningful and engaging arts education for all learners. Our dedicated educators work to create environments where students feel inspired to take creative risks, discover new passions, and share their talents with their school and community.
The arts help students develop discipline, perseverance, creativity, and teamwork—skills that support success in school and throughout life. We are grateful for the continued support of families, community members, and partners who help make these programs possible.
Thank you for visiting our Fine & Performing Arts website and for supporting the arts in Boise School District.
Sincerely,
Benjamin Simmonds
Content Supervisor, Fine & Performing Arts
Boise School District