Arts Programs

Art Education/Therapy

The Center´s art teacher is both a certified teacher and art therapist. The art education curriculum follows the CCCS´S. The course of study is designed to provide students with the opportunity to experience the elements and principles of design. A variety of art media is utilized and explored, thereby facilitating the creative experience. The Passport to the World exposes students to different cultures and art traditions around the world. Our ceramics unit utilizes the Center´s state of the art computerized kiln to bring the students´ clay designs to life. Art education and therapy refines and enhances our students´ fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and social skills. Click here to view samples of our students' artwork at artsonia.com.

Music Education/Therapy

The Center´s music teacher is both a certified music teacher and therapist. The music curriculum follows the NJDOE CCCS´S. Students are exposed to music and composers, different rhythms and instruments, different cultures´ music, and participate in hands-on activities to uncover their creative musical talents. Using color-coded musical scales, students learn to play the keyboard and melodica. Music stimulates communication, and promotes turn taking and other pragmatic skills otherwise inaccessible through other mediums.

Percussion Ensemble

The Phoenix Center percussion ensemble has cut two of its own CD´s. With original music fashioned on a drumming circle style, the students in this group learn to take turns, communicate with each other, and share. While performing great music, students also build their self esteem. Click here to listen to sample track from the CD. Click here for another.

Melodica Ensemble

Using color-coded notes on the scale, our music teacher instructs students to play a melodica. At first, students play by blowing into a tube as the medolica is placed on a desk. As the students become proficient, they hold the melodica to their mouth and finger the keys. A group activity, the ensemble helps students become aware of each other as they play melodious music.

Junior and Senior Chorus

Choral singing is also a part of the music program. Students who have an interest in singing are encouraged to audition for either chorus based on chronological age. The choruses perform at out Winter and Spring Concerts.