Cornish+ In the Schools

Bring Cornish College of the Arts teaching artists directly to your elementary school! At Cornish, we believe that after school programming should be at the highest level of quality for each student in all areas of performance and visual art. Whether your student is singing with Cornish+ Voices, Illustrating their stories with Comics Studio, or learning songs and music theory with Ukulele Kids, we developed our after school programming with the same educational principles and standards we hold for our undergraduates. 

This unique program brings the expertise and innovative teaching of Cornish teaching and professional artists directly to elementary students in public, private, independent schools, and homeschool associations. Each class is thoughtfully designed to spark imagination, inspire self-expression, and develop foundational artistic skills while integrating creative problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking. From crafting stories and choreographing movements to exploring musical rhythms and experimenting with visual mediums, participants are encouraged to explore their unique voices in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Whether students are uncovering a new passion, expanding their artistic knowledge, or honing their skills, Cornish+ In the Schools provides an enriching experience that inspires a lifelong connection to the arts.

Partner with us to bring high-quality, transformative arts education to your school or community and watch creativity flourish!

How Cornish+ In the Schools works!

Designed for any elementary educational school or community organization:
Cornish+ In the School teaching artists can be sent to any educational or community organization that works with grades K to 8th. Parents, Enrichment, or Program Coordinators can choose from the selection of classes listed below and either schedule a first time virtual meeting, or a school visit to discuss scheduling options. Please note that site visits must be scheduled a week or more in advance.

Scheduling:
Our Cornish+ In the Schools classes can be scheduled during the fall, winter or spring after school sessions. Classes run either 8 or 10 weeks depending on your schools session schedule. We understand that some independent schools are able to create their own schedule, so if you'd like to create a longer or shorter session, please reach out to us. Classes can either be 60 or 90 minutes based on your schools needs. Some classes may need to be a certain length depending on the content, but we'll do our best to fit your needs! 

Not just after school programs! 
See a class that you would like to implement during the regular school day?  Cornish+ In the Schools teaching artists all have a B.A., B.F.A., or a Masters degree in their chosen artistic profession. If you would like to create a program to fit into the school day that is scheduled around your academic programming, please reach out to us to find out what might be possible. We take "In the schools" literally and are happy to send our teaching artists to help bolster your arts education and mentor aspiring new visual and performing artists! 

Tuition and class minimum enrollment
Any class selected below that fits into the 8 to 10 week schedule, at the 60 to 90 minute time, is $225 per student. Class minimums to run are - 6 students for 60 minutes - 7 students for 90 minutes. 

Have a class idea or would like to offer something you don't see here? 
Cornish College of the Arts is an accredited 4 year college in the performing and visual arts. If you have a class idea you are not seeing, we can make it happen for you! We can tailor any class you'd like to the schedule you need. We also can create and schedule workshops, assemblies or performances for your school or organization! 

Cornish+ In the Schools Programming

Cornish+ Voices

Everybody sing! Cornish+ Voices is a vocal ensemble for people with varied musical abilities, open to complete beginners and experienced musicians alike, ages 5 - 99+. Knowledge of musical notation is not required, the songs will be taught by ear with lyrics projected. Musical selections will vary; expect to sing songs in different languages, American folk songs, current songs and welcome suggestions! 

Throughout this multi-generational ensemble, friends and family of all ages will join together in this truly unique choral experience that culminates with a performance for the Seattle community at the Cornish College Playhouse at the Seattle Center. We are happy to offer this experience to our Seattle neighbors, friends and family to learn and sing with your community!

Learn more about how Cornish+ Voices works here... 

Comics Studio

Bring stories to life! In Comics Studio, students will learn the art of visual storytelling, from creating dynamic characters to designing captivating storyboard panels. By exploring drawing techniques, developing unique styles, students will create their own storyboards that go beyond the comic book. For aspiring artists and storytellers alike, this program combines fun, imagination, and skill-building in a supportive, collaborative environment. No prior experience required—just a love for story and illustration!

Beginning Beat Makers

We're excited to start young music writers journey into production with Beginning Beat Makers! This exciting class introduces students to the basics of creating beats and making their own tracks using fun, easy-to-learn tools. Students will explore rhythm, layering sounds, and building their first songs while learning the fundamentals of music production.

Whether they’re into hip hop, pop, or electronic vibes, this class encourages creativity and self-expression in a supportive environment. No prior experience needed—just a love for music and a desire to create something amazing!

Clowning Around (Coming Soon!)

Step into the spotlight and unleash your silly side with Clowning Around! This fun and energetic class lets kids explore the art of clowning through playful movement, comedy, and creative expression. Students will learn basic theater techniques around comedy and character like exaggerated gestures, physical humor, and improvisation while building confidence and teamwork.

Through games, skits, and laughter-filled activities, students will develop storytelling skills and discover how to make an audience smile. No prior experience needed—just a sense of humor and a love for having fun. Get ready to clown around and create memories that will bring the house down!

Stop-Motion Movie Making

Bring your imagination to life one frame at a time in Stop-Motion Movie Making! This hands-on class introduces students to the magic of stop-motion animation, where they’ll create their own mini movies using clay, paper, toys, and more. Students will learn the basics of storytelling, character design, and scene building, along with simple techniques for capturing and editing their animations.

From planning storyboards to bringing their creations to life, students will have fun turning their ideas into action-packed or whimsical short films. No experience needed—just a love for creativity and a spark of imagination!

Ukulele Kids

Get ready to strum, sing, and explore the world of music with Ukulele Kids! This lively class introduces young learners to the joy of playing the ukulele while building a strong foundation in overall musicianship. Students will learn essential skills like tuning, strumming, holding the ukulele, and mastering a basic set of chords.

Through fun and engaging lessons, kids will play songs that grow in complexity, introducing them to new chords and sparking their sense of musicality. Along the way, they’ll explore songs from different traditions and languages, including Spanish and Portuguese, while learning about the artists and cultures behind the music.

Ukulele Kids goes beyond playing! Students will dive into basic music theory, ear training, and music appreciation, all while having a blast singing and jamming together. By the end of the session, students will walk away with new skills, a positive connection to music, and a few catchy songs to share with family and friends!

Hip-Hop Dance

This high-energy class introduces students to the fundamentals of hip hop, including basic moves, freestyle techniques, and dynamic choreography. Students will explore rhythm, coordination, and self-expression through fun and engaging routines set to upbeat music.

With a focus on creativity and confidence, students will learn to develop their own style while working together as a team. Whether they’re beginners or have some dance experience, this class is perfect for anyone who loves to dance and have fun. Let’s hit the beat and bring the energy!

Creative + Writing

Unlock your imagination and bring your ideas to life with Creative + Writing! This class invites students to explore the art of storytelling, poetry, and creative expression through fun and engaging writing activities. From crafting exciting adventures and colorful characters to experimenting with wordplay and rhythm, students will discover new ways to share their voices.

With a mix of group activities, games, and personal projects, young writers will build confidence, strengthen their writing skills, and let their creativity shine. Whether you're a budding author or just love to dream up stories, this class is the perfect place to write, imagine, and have fun!

New to Cornish+ In the Schools? 

Get in Touch or set up a virtual meeting!

Set up a virtual meeting with the Cornish+ Interim Director, Michael Callaizakis. If you'd like to schedule a school or organization visit with us, please call or email below.  and selected faculty on January 16th at 4PM by signing up [here]. If you'd like to schedule a 1:1 session with Michael, please click here to schedule now.

For immediate questions, email plus@cornish.edu.