The REC Center Creates an International Experience

The REC Center teamed up with local businesses to provide an international experience to kids this summer. So far, students have explored Italy and Japan with tours at La Pasta Italia and Habu Ewing Tae Kwon Do Studio. The International ART Academy was developed by REC Center Executive Director, Jennifer Araiza in an effort to teach youth appreciation, respect, and tolerance through the arts. This program is among many that the Center provides to the community which aren't available in schools. "When we teach our youth to appreciate, respect, and tolerate differences and uniqueness, we are teaching them how to love one another, and what better way than through the arts," Araiza said. Araiza also pointed out that students' response and reception to art is a lot higher than when retaining information through auditory learning. The development of the International ART Academy was also in efforts of anti-bullying. Students are mainly assessed by daily journal entries, which offers a sense of understanding through the three key points of the program. By outlining these points, students are able to see the varying values among cultures. An understanding of differences will help the children accept each other in their own unique ways. Essentially, visual arts learning will help the students to respond to and accept the things they don't understand. This program has been very well received by educators. Bradley Elementary in San Bernardino requested to have the program on their campus. To solidify the partnership, the REC Center has adopted Bradley Elementary. "Not only will we provide the students with fun art projects and performing arts and activities, but the lessons are aligned with Core Curriculum to maximize our partnership with the school," Araiza explained. The REC Center will be on campus weekly to provide lessons through the International ART Academy. The International ART Academy is currently open during the off-track season for only $75. The program is available for all children between the ages of 6 and 12. For more information, contact the REC Center at (909) 728-1081.