This belief is not just a philosophy—it is supported by extensive academic research. Students who engage in the arts consistently perform better across core subjects and develop critical life skills.

As part of ALBA’s educational program, every student is empowered to use the arts as a form of communication and personal expression. Through our comprehensive International Baccalaureate (IB) Fine Arts instruction, students learn to think creatively, take meaningful risks, and approach challenges with analytical insight. Our arts-integrated approach fosters not only intellectual growth, but also social and emotional development. Students become well-rounded, confident, and empathetic individuals prepared for the complexities of the modern world.

ALBA elementary students participate in art classes once a week, and our middle schoolers take classes twice a week. Fine Arts instruction includes:

Creative Writing

Our IB Creative Writing curriculum highlights the diverse and significant contributions of Latino authors and storytellers.

Dance

The Dance program at ALBA offers students the opportunity to experience diverse cultural traditions through community dance performances. Students perform for Cantos de las Américas, deepening their engagement with dance as both a cultural and expressive art form. They also actively participate in the Danceworks Mad Hot Rhythm program and competition.

Music

Music is an integral part of the educational experience at ALBA. Students engage in a comprehensive general music curriculum, receive individual string instrument instruction, and regularly perform or sing at school events. Their musical learning is further enriched through community-based field trips that foster a deeper appreciation for music and its cultural significance.

Theater

Our Theater program introduces students to the performing arts through in-school theatrical performances and other enriching experiences, such as field trips to the Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. Classroom instruction includes reading and acting out scenes, allowing students to engage directly with dramatic texts. We are actively working to expand and deepen this component of our arts program to provide even more meaningful opportunities for student involvement.

Visual Arts

ALBA’s Visual Arts program is grounded in both state and national standards for arts education and is aligned with the IB framework for instruction and learning. It is thoughtfully designed to honor cultural values and traditions while exposing students to global perspectives through the arts. Students have a voice in their learning and explore the world through artistic expression in ways that are personally meaningful.