Our Work

Professional Learning

Arts Ed Collaborative offers cohort-based learning experiences—such as the Arts Ed Leadership Academy—and gatherings like the SWPA Arts ED Expo that helps educators deepen their practice and connect with peers. We also partner with school districts to support standards-based curriculum writing, student assessment, and holistic arts program planning. Not sure where to begin? 

AEC has a catalogue of 1.5-2hr workshops ready to offer your teachers, school leaders, and district administrators. These include: 

  • Activating Arts Learning: A Theory of Change
  • Meaningful Look-Fors in an Arts Classroom
  • An Introduction to the National Core Arts Standards (NCAS)
  • Authentically Integrating the Arts + Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
  • Supporting Student Storytelling 

Learn more about specific programs on our artlook® profile by clicking here. Register for upcoming AEC programs on our opportunities page by clicking here. Book a 15-minute conversation with Executive Director Yael Silk to discuss your professional learning needs by clicking here.   

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Program Evaluation Services

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AEC provides evaluation and consulting services that help arts organizations and school districts improve the design and impact of their programs. Our team works collaboratively with you to gather insights, refine strategies, and elevate arts learning experiences across the education ecosystem. These services ensure that programs are responsive, high quality, and aligned with community needs.

Contact Director of Evaluation and Planning Matt Sikora for more information at sikoram@artsedcollab.org.

Connector & Convener

As a regional convener, AEC brings together educators, artists, administrators, and cultural organization staff to share innovative practices and strengthen arts education across Southwestern Pennsylvania. Through convenings, collaborative initiatives, and community-centered partnerships, AEC helps build a diverse network committed to making the arts central to learning. Check out our curated opportunities page to find your next connection to this region’s vibrant arts education community by clicking here. 

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Administering artlook® SWPA

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AEC administers artlook® SWPA – a no-cost, open-access map and searchable directory of people, places, and programs supporting arts learning for students in Southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s the only platform of its kind in the state that brings together arts education data from schools, arts organizations, and teaching artists in a single platform. By participating in artlook® SWPA, partners contribute to a growing movement that makes arts education more visible, equitable, and community-driven. Learn more by clicking here.