Check Out the 2025-26 Artists-in-Schools Season Lineup!

Do you remember the first time something a teacher said to you “clicked?” That moment when you finally understood the difference between a metaphor and a simile? That’s what the CAC’s Artists-in-Schools Initiative is all about. By bringing professional artists into Chatham County schools, artists leverage the arts through interactive workshops that support teachers’ learning objectives and bring core curriculum to life.

“In my time with Chatham County Schools, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of the arts,” expressed Bryan DeCristofaro, Instructional Program Facilitator for the Arts at Chatham County Schools. “I’ve seen students step into confidence, creativity, and empathy that reach far beyond the classroom. Research shows that students engaged in the arts are more likely to excel academically and stay connected to school, and I’ve watched that truth come alive here in Chatham. The arts help us grow not just skilled learners, but whole and thriving individuals.”

This season, the CAC will be bringing professional teaching artists into every school in the Chatham County Schools system. It’s a goal that’s been 10 years in the making, and we are overjoyed to make Chatham the first county in the whole state to have Artists-in-Schools in every public school, every single year. That’s right! This season welcomes an impressive lineup, including two NEW artists.

“Engaging with the arts helps students feel seen, inspired, and emotionally uplifted, improving mental health while opening doors to new experiences,” said Marcia Grimes, CAC Board member.

PSSST: We never ask teachers or schools to pay for artist residencies. They’ve got enough work to do! Instead, all these smiles you see from Artists-in-Schools residencies are brought to you through our partnerships with NC Arts Council and Chatham County Schools–and with support from generous individuals and businesses. You can help too! Click here to help us bring the arts to all places Chatham.