2020
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Award Winners

NBRS Badge for Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts

Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts - Jonesboro, GA

It is our belief at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts (MESSA) that we maintain consistently high levels of achievement for all students by providing an effective standards-based instructional program through the Arts. The vision of the Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts is to establish a learning community where students achieve high academic standards, maintain good citizenship, and excel in their artistic environment. Our educational efforts stem from a unified vision of excellence and a school-wide commitment to pursuing high levels of expectations from both teachers and students.

Our course progression provides all students with a challenging learning opportunity that ensures they will be able to compete globally upon graduating from high school. All courses are geared toward a rigorous "college-prep" curriculum supported by engaging and relevant instruction. We offer fine art courses in the areas of dance, theatre, vocal music, orchestra, band, guitar, piano, and visual arts. Additionally, students attend field trips, participate in performances and competitions, and work with professionals to become familiar with careers in their chosen performance area.

We believe the premise of arts-infused learning will provide our students the opportunity for a deeper understanding of concepts through real-life application. Learning through the arts allows study of multiple viewpoints, exposure to different mediums of expression, and provides complementary ways of immersing students in concepts promoting deeper understanding.

Finally, our school also focuses on their social and emotional growth. Small group sessions and classroom guidance lessons centered around anxiety and stress management, appropriate peer communication, and relationship building are a few social emotional interventions that promote confidence and self-efficacy among our students.

2020 Awardee

Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts

2580 Mount Zion Parkway
Jonesboro, GA, 30236-2500

(770) 472-2838

Principal at time of Nomination:
Dr. Michael H Robinson

Title I School, Magnet School

Clayton County Public Schools

Suburban

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Bell Award Winner

Mission

To develop 21st century thinkers to become global leaders by providing the highest quality of education in and through the arts.

Student Demographics

  • Asian: 6%
  • Black/African American: 77%
  • Hispanic: 12%
  • White: 3%
  • Two or more races: 2%
  • Application