Involvement in the performing arts will serve as a protective factor in the D.U.E. Season Charter School learning environment. We believe that students who recognize and develop inherent talent in some area of the arts develop a sense of autonomy. The autonomous student has a secure sense of identity that assists in his/her ability to act independently and to effect adaptive distancing from dysfunctional behaviors surrounding him/her. Students’ development in the performing arts acts as a protective factor, a vehicle through which students can develop effective management of stress, which has been documented as an obstacle to learning.

We further believe that participation in the performing arts transfers as a skill set for the learning environment including discipline and self-confidence that manifests in increased student achievement. Consequently, all students will develop skills in a selected area of the performing arts as an integral component of the D.U.E. Season experience. Students will be required to demonstrate annual proficiencies in the selected area of performance. As students progress in their skills, they will explore areas of performance, composition, and studio work.