Who can participate in the arts camp?

Marlington students who are entering grades 1-6 can participate.  There is one exception, and that is the Beginning Guitar class, which is for students entering grades 4-8.  If classes are not full to capacity, we will accept students from neighboring schools.

When is the camp?

This year the camp will run five days a week from July 21-August 1.

How much does it cost to attend?

The basic tuition rate is $50 per child per class.  There may be a materials fee of $5-10 for some of the studio classes (Visual Art, Photography, Pottery) or rental fee if a child needs to rent an instrument for violin,  guitar or African Drumming  classes.  Some scholarships are available for families in need, based on our free and reduced lunch program.  There is a small handling fee for students outside the Marlington School District who wish to attend.

Does my child need  to have any previous instruction for these classes?

No.  Classes are, unless otherwise specified, for beginners.  Projects change from year to year to insure the students will learn something new each session.  Also, our classes are small, so instructors can tailor instruction to their current skill level.

Can a child take more than one class?

Absolutely!!  In fact, we offer discounts for multiple classes (3 or more) and/or multiple children so attending the program will not be a financial burden for families with more than one child.

Who will work with the children?

All of our instructors are either certified public school educators or private music/art/dance instructors. 

Will there be any special events in addition to classroom instruction?

The extent of special events will be determined by availability of funds.  Last year we were fortunate enough to receive a $5,000 grant from the ArtsinStark Foundation which allowed us to have Encore Fridays.

Will the arts program be a permanent addition to Marlington’s programming?

The future of the program depends on many factors,  among which are the availability of funding, buildings, instructors and administrators to run the camp.  Hopefully it will become a permanent part of what Marlington Local School District has to offer.

Will we have a chance to meet our child’s instructor(s)?

Yes!  Parents are encouraged to attend our Open House which will be held the Thursday evening before the last day of camp.  Student artwork will be on display that evening, and students will share some of what they’ve learned in the two weeks through musical and dramatic performances and demonstrations. 

Who is Florence Allison?

Florence Allison was a long-time music educator in the Alliance Area.  She taught elementary school vocal/general music at Washington Elementary School and Marlington Middle School for 32 years.  She then retired and taught “Elementary Music Methods” at Mount Union College for 18 years.  She gave private piano instruction in her home and also led the chancel choir and handbell choirs at Union Avenue Methodist Church for over 40 years.  She was very active in community groups, and was a member of Mu Phi Epsilon, Alliance Alumni Chapter, the Postscript Club and many other organizations.  Her 50 years in public education brought her in contact with thousands of students of all ages, and she touched many lives with her cheery disposition and infectious love of music.  Mrs. Allison passed away in October of 2005.  The arts camp was named to honor her memory.