The U.S. Department of Education is calling on student performers from across the United States and its territories to participate in its 2024-25 Back-to-School initiative. The initiative is part of the Department’s Student Performing Arts Initiative (SPAI), which aims to showcase student talent at various department-hosted events both internally and externally.
This initiative welcomes students currently enrolled in elementary, secondary, or post-secondary institutions, including accredited trade schools, who embody resilience, diversity, and excellence. The call is open to a wide range of performances such as bands, soloists, choirs, dancers, poets, and theatrical performers. Special emphasis is placed on finding talents that can represent cultural and historical observances throughout the year.
The Department specifically seeks performances for National Hispanic Heritage Month in September, National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, and National Native American Indian/Alaska Native Heritage Month in November. Additionally, the SPAI supports performances for observances such as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday, Women’s History Month, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and several others dedicated to celebrating diversity and heritage.
Students interested in participating are encouraged to showcase their talents, which may be featured virtually or in person at various events. For detailed information on how to submit talent entries, along with answers to frequently asked questions and other guidance, prospective participants should visit the Department’s dedicated SPAI page.
Those requiring reasonable accommodations for the submission process can reach out via email at studentart@ed.gov for assistance.
This initiative not only highlights the diverse talents found in educational institutions across the country but also integrates educational experiences with cultural and public service events, enriching the educational journey of student performers.
