Author: Andie Freeman
The long days of summer are here, which means that many teachers and students are enjoying a slower pace to relax and recharge. Summer can also be a season when teachers prepare for the next school year, taking time for planning and professional development that they might not have during the traditional school year. Follow these links to find lesson plans, professional development opportunities, and more:
- The North Carolina Art Museum, which USA Today recently named one of the 10 best free museums in the United States, offers a treasure trove of educational resources for the visual arts. On the museum’s website, you will find interdisciplinary lesson plans, information about in-person and virtual field trips, useful videos, and professional development opportunities.
- June 21 was Make Music Day, a global celebration encouraging everyone to make music—on the street, in parks, in venues, on porches, wherever inspiration strikes. While this year's Make Music Day has passed, the spirit of musical celebration continues with North Carolina's deep musical heritage. The state has produced incredible artists across every genre, from bluegrass to R&B, all honored in the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Explore the Hall of Fame's list of inductees to learn more.
- The North Carolina Symphony’s education program page provides opportunities for professional development workshops, resources through their newsletter, and a link where public and charter middle and high schools statewide can request a visit by a musician.
- As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, North Carolina is marking that milestone with celebrations and educational resources. Through America 250NC, you can find events throughout the state, lesson plans, printable activity sheets, NCpedia, and much more. Check back through the year, as events and resources are added.
- Juneteenth was celebrated on June 19, but its historical significance deserves recognition throughout the year. The North Carolina African American Heritage Commission's 2025 Toolkit provides a community calendar, historical information, and more.
Bonus tip: Relax this summer and listen to the Arts Across NC podcast. Most recently, we shared the stories of the 2025 North Carolina Heritage Award honorees. These profiles delve into the artists’ roots and their work, and offer glimpses of North Carolina culture and heritage.