A+ Schools of North Carolina is transforming education with the philosophy that the arts are fundamental to teaching and learning. A+ supports schools in several extraordinary ways:
Whole School Transformation
Since 1995, A+ has transformed how schools approach their work. Our network of schools teaches the state’s mandated curriculum in a collaborative, multi-disciplined way, with the arts woven into every aspect of a child’s learning experience. Through professional development, technical support and mentoring, each A+ school develops a unique and creative school identity that elevates student engagement and student achievement.
![Students sitting in a circle outdoors](https://files.nc.gov/arts-council/styles/_inline_extra_large_/public/images/2023-03/3Y7A7493.jpg?VersionId=mDw3mVhtJ5Su9DA0U_e5jpAdODhDJ9E8&itok=vfP62YRq)
Customized Professional Development
Our staff collaborate with arts organizations and other partners in the field of education to support arts-based projects and strengthen arts-integrated practice. We customize professional development based on the unique needs of individual partners.
![A+ fellows clapping and smiling during an exercise](https://files.nc.gov/arts-council/styles/_inline_extra_large_/public/images/2023-02/_L7A7021_0.jpg?VersionId=YUC6XqqQFT2qplzc82pKBdZjzCSZ1dow&itok=aIQN-tBc)
Network of Schools
The A+ network includes schools of all grade levels in rural, suburban, and urban communities across the state, many of which have been A+ since the program began in 1995. Schools in the network benefit from peer learning and sharing experiences, resources, and ideas. As a collective, the network shapes the programs, services, and trainings that are provided by A+ Schools of North Carolina.
See our A+ network.
![A room full of A+ fellows with their hands raised in the air](https://files.nc.gov/arts-council/styles/_inline_extra_large_/public/images/2023-02/Aplus12.jpg?VersionId=EeujrgClcUhcKEJ2x8sM7N9PLZO5YV.0&itok=WN-w1doP)
Our Staff
Michelle Burrows
A+ Schools Director
(919) 814-6503
michelle.burrows@dncr.nc.gov
Jennifer Huggins
A+ Schools Program Coordinator
(919) 814-6520
jennifer.huggins@dncr.nc.gov
Tom Nevels
A+ Schools Professional Development Manager
(919) 814-6521
tom.nevels@dncr.nc.gov
Laura Walters
A+ Schools Program Administrator
(919) 814-6509
laura.walters@dncr.nc.gov