WHO WE ARE

Our history: In 1983, ArtsEd Washington began its work as the Washington Alliance for Arts Education, led by the John F. Kennedy Center as part of a national program called the Kennedy Center Alliances for Arts Education. For many years, these organizations were advocating in almost every US state, but in the early 2000s when the Kennedy Center was no longer able to fund the nationwide network, many of our sister organizations were forced to fold or reinvent themselves. Fortunately, ArtsEd Washington has persisted. Although we have seen organizational and societal changes over the last 40 years, our overarching mission remains the same: to ensure that all Washington students experience quality, accessible arts access regardless of socio-economic status, school location, race, gender, disability, or other systemic inequities.

In addition to advocating directly with legislators in Olympia, AEW now also utilizes a combination of digital communications and statewide travel to advance arts programming throughout the state. By collaborating with school leaders, providing professional development, and leading advocacy efforts, we are creating a Washington where
ALL K-12 students experience the academic and lifelong benefits of arts education.

Our invitation: We hope you’ll join us— as a Board Member, Community Ambassador, Project-based Volunteer, or financial supporter!
These roles all include remote and/or hybrid opportunities, and are all critical to supporting students throughout the state!