Arts banner. We Believe Art IS Education

Timucuan Elementary Music Teacher teaches students on his keyboard

Paxon High School student paints a ceramic project in art class

Learn and Grow with Us Through the Arts!

Fine Arts: Where academics and creativity meet

An engaging fine arts program is vital to a well-rounded education. From creative thinking to problem-solving, years of research show the arts enhance all aspects of a student's education. That's why we strive to provide the best and highest-quality instruction in music, visual arts, theater, and dance.

We make the arts available to all students

For years, we've faced rumors that we don't offer the arts. But that could not be further from the truth. We know an engaging fine arts program is vital to a well-rounded education, and years of research prove it. That's why nearly all of our 160+ schools have at least one art and one music class, including our centers for students with disabilities.

Duval County Public Schools Honor choir students posing with a teacher

Fort Caroline dance students practice on stage

We've increased funding for the arts 

We don’t just prioritize the arts, we invest in the arts. In fact, Duval County voters recently approved a millage rate increase leveraging more funds for the arts. This additional revenue will allow us to purchase new equipment and band uniforms and make important enhancements to our programs. 

We prepare students for post-secondary and career success 

From tech theater to digital photography, our fine arts courses are embedded with the education and skills students need to transition into the real world successfully. This means that no matter which fine arts pathway students pursue, they'll receive relevant, 21st-century instruction and training that will take them from graduation and beyond. 

Our Fine Arts Programs and Classes 

We offer courses and programs in every category of fine arts defined by the state of Florida — music, dance, theater, and visual arts. You can find options throughout our schools, as well as in magnet schools for the visual and performing arts. 

People acting in a play

Theater

Students participating in our theater programs engage in every aspect of a theatrical production. Performances are student-run with hands-on learning opportunities available on stage (acting, singing, dancing) and behind the scenes (script writing, technical production, costumes, props).

Abstract painting of people eating

Visual Arts

Our visual arts instruction spans all grades and allows students to explore a variety of creative expressions including drawing, painting, clay, sculpture, digital art, photography, printmaking, metalwork, and film. Our students’ work is frequently featured in local, regional, and national exhibitions.

Students playing wind instruments

Music

We offer a wide range of music education at all grade levels. We begin with the fundamentals in elementary and progress to more advanced skills in middle and high school with courses and programs such as chorus, band, orchestra, guitar, piano, marching band, and music tech.

Ballerinas practicing

Dance

Our dance programs aren’t just about moves and choreography — our students are learning to express themselves through movement. By focusing on body awareness, students gain a deeper understanding of artistic expression and communication.

Elementary-aged girl playing an instrument and smiling

Arts in Our Elementary Schools

We know the elementary years are an important time for building foundations. That's why we offer art and music in all elementary schools, cultivating the necessary knowledge and skills students will need as they get older.

Art instruction: Students explore a variety of visual art techniques and media as they develop communication, creativity, self-expression, and critical-thinking skills.

Music instruction: Students engage in hands-on learning experiences through an array of music activities, activating skill development, music literacy, peer collaboration, and cultural awareness.

Magnet Schools and Programs for Visual and Performing Arts

Students who wish to enter more focused, specialized study of the arts can apply to attend one of the following schools:

Dedicated Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Schools

Schools with Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Programs

Additionally, Ortega Elementary School offers a Museum Studies magnet theme. Students seeking entry into these programs must go through the school choice process and may also need to audition or submit a portfolio. Acceptance is not guaranteed. For more information, contact our Office of School Choice.

Graduating students

Duval County Public Schools' Seal of Fine Arts

Duval County Public Schools’ Seal of Fine Arts recognizes graduating seniors who have dedicated a significant portion of their high school journey to the study and pursuit of excellence in the fine arts. Students who successfully meet the requirements of the program will receive a seal on their high school diploma.

Students who wish to learn more can contact Director of Fine Arts Dr. Laurie Hoppock at
Email Dr. Laurie Hoppock

STEAM Education Programs

More than a dozen of our schools are integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math into their fine arts programming thanks to a five-year, $2 million STEAM grant from the US Department of Defense Education Activity. Schools with high student military populations will be able to use funds to:

  • Purchase equipment – such as tablets, 3D printing pens, and tablets – to enhance instruction 

  • Build or renovate a STEAM lab or create a STEAM space

  • Support additional field trips, parent nights, and professional development

Annual Events, Performances, and Exhibitions

Duval County Public Schools coordinates and participates in several fine arts events, performances, and exhibitions that help our students gain experience, exposure, confidence, and in some cases, college scholarships.

These opportunities span numerous grade levels and disciplines and are
scheduled around the same time each year. Below you can find brief descriptions of some of our larger events, performances, and exhibitions.

Career and Technical Education Programs

Several of our high school arts programs align with Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Students pursue work-based learning opportunities and can also earn industry-level certifications. Career pathways include:

After-School Programs and Partners

We collaborate with several community partners to offer our students additional opportunities and experiences in the fine arts. This includes field trips, after-school programs, and summer enrichment.

Offerings and partner organizations vary across the district. To learn more, contact your child’s school.