ARCK’s ProgramS

ARCK transforms creativity from a subject, into a skill for life.

ARCK envisions a future where creativity is recognized as a vital skill—not a privilege—and where every young person, regardless of background, has the opportunity to turn imagination into action. The Creative Pathways Program builds on ARCK’s 14-year foundation in arts-based learning to create a new model of creative workforce development rooted in belonging, purpose, and equity.

Through this iterative co-design process, students become co-creators of their own learning journeys—developing the creative confidence, critical thinking, and civic awareness needed to shape a more inclusive future. Educators and families become partners in this process, building a shared ecosystem of creativity that connects schools, communities, and industries.

By bridging art, design, and social innovation, ARCK transforms creative learning into a pathway to workforce readiness and social impact—ensuring that the next generation of Boston’s youth and beyond are not only job-ready but purpose-ready.

Our philosophy

ARCK’s innovative approach doesn’t just put a paintbrush in a student’s hand and wait to see what happens. It gives them a creative toolbox they can use for the rest of their lives.

A growing body of research shows that creativity is an essential component of a well-rounded education. Incorporating creativity into academic subjects has been shown to increase students’ achievement, motivation, attention, and critical thinking skills. Research also shows a positive correlation between exposure to creative content and the development of social-emotional skills.

ARCK’s Creativity Catalyst Learning Community is driven by our Integrated Creative Mindset (ICM). The ICM uses creativity as a vehicle to promote academic engagement, social-emotional well-being, and social awareness and action.

At the core of our work is the belief that kids need to feel safe, seen, and heard in order to learn, and this "takes a village." Our curriculum culminates in capstone projects that make meaningful connections between the community and educators to amplify student voices in the world.

grades 9-12

We give youth a place to put knowledge into action—teaching budgeting, storytelling, design, and communication skills—while amplifying their voices and positioning them for college and careers. Through ARCK’s social network, students are connected with real opportunities to practice, present, and get paid for their learning.

ALL AGES

ARCKfest is a one-day event that promotes creativity and social-emotional well-being through a multidisciplinary arts approach. The goal of ARCKfest is to create a fun and meaningful artistic experience that connects to learning and fosters self-expression for all students.