Finding positive, inviting ways for all families to be included at Centennial Academy of Fine Arts Education has been a goal for this school year. The parent teacher organization (PTO) at Centennial has hosted a variety of events for family participation throughout the year in response to feedback the school received over the summer that families wanted more of this. Principal Dan Cuoco said this was “something we heard loud and clear over the summer from our families as we began the year. We want to have families come and enjoy time in the building with their students without the expectations of raising money.”

The school’s accountability committee has also been focusing on how to make the school environment inclusive and reflective of Centennial’s values and culture. This has included everything from physical space (for example, how does the front entryway represent Centennial and it’s values and culture) to hosting informal events with the PTO.

One such event happened this month: Canvas and Kool-Aid! It was a roaring success with 215 attendees! Families came to the school for some painting, some dinner, and a piano performance. Check out some photos below.