Maine East High School is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $20,000 Creative Learning Grant from the Illinois Arts Council (IAC) for the 2025–2026 school year. This funding will provide more than 780 fine arts students with hands-on, curriculum-connected arts and cultural field experiences throughout the Chicago area.
The Creative Learning Grant recognizes schools that foster creative engagement and equitable access to arts education. With this support, Maine East’s Fine Arts Department will offer students opportunities to explore professional-level art, music, theatre and media experiences that enrich and extend their classroom learning.
Expanding Access to the Arts
Under the leadership of Sarah Djordjevic, Fine Arts Department Chair, Maine East will coordinate a robust series of experiences with the grant funds that include visits to the Art Institute of Chicago, music production studios, film studios, and performances by institutions such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Goodman Theatre.
Students in broadcasting and journalism courses will also gain real-world experience through assignments such as on-site coverage at the Chicago Auto Show and media production workshops at local studios.
“These experiences open doors for students who might not otherwise have access to Chicago’s rich cultural landscape,” said Djordjevic. “This grant ensures that every student, regardless of financial circumstance, can connect classroom learning with real-world artistic engagement.”
Promoting Equity and Creative Opportunity
Maine East High School serves a diverse student body, with 36% qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch and 29% English Language Learners. Many students have never had the opportunity to visit downtown Chicago or attend a professional performance. The IAC funding helps remove these barriers, ensuring equitable access to transformative learning experiences that inspire creativity, confidence and self-expression.
Transformative Learning Outcomes
The program aims to strengthen student engagement, expand cultural literacy and build awareness of creative career paths. Learning outcomes will be measured through reflective writing, creative projects, critiques, and performance-based assessments—all directly aligned with Fine Arts curriculum standards.
Investing in Future Creators
With the $20,000 grant, the department will reduce costs associated with transportation, admission, and guest artist workshops, ensuring that every student can participate. Additional efforts will include partnerships with local arts organizations and group rate coordination to maximize the impact of every dollar.
“This support from the Illinois Arts Council validates the power of arts education to shape critical thinkers, communicators, and innovators,” said Djordjevic. “We’re thrilled to provide our students with opportunities that spark inspiration and expand their view of what’s possible.”