The value of a community that nourishes its artists, musicians, and thespians is undeniable. Loveland has an educational program, the Loveland Area Integrated School of the Arts (LISA), that believes in nourishing these artists while they are still young. In 2007, the Thompson School District launched LISA in order to provide an educational option for students with a passion for the arts. The curriculum is designed to integrate visual and performing arts across the curriculum and offer alternatives to traditional learning styles.

The LISA program is offered at Garfield Elementary, Bill Reed Middle School and Mountain View High School. All students at Bill Reed are considered LISA students. Arts are integrated in all content areas with the belief that all students learn better with and through the arts. We continue to offer LISA After-School Arts Academy (AAA) for students who wish to have additional experiences in the arts. Opportunities are available both in the classroom and as extra curricular activities in the form of after school classes; art, dance, creative writing, and choir clubs; and performances and shows at schools, the Rialto Theater, and art galleries. All three schools build background knowledge and experiences in the arts through field trips and artist-in-residence opportunities. Community service is also a key component as students from all three schools participate in a variety of community activities.

The school district has partnered with the University of Northern Colorado, Colorado Creative Industries, and the Erion Foundation for developmental and financial support. Working with professional artists and businesses in the area is key to the program’s success. The LISA program hopes that by nourishing these young artists, Loveland will always have a thriving art community.

We hope you’ll consider being a part of LISA and get involved with our After-School Arts Academy (AAA)!