LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — On Saturday, May 6, Konocti Unified School District students and their families will host an outdoor event to celebrate the first year of its new music and arts program: ONline Rural Arts and Music Program or “On-Ramp.”

Families and community members are encouraged to drop by Pomo Elementary School located at 3350 Acacia St. in Clearlake from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for food, live music, and interactive arts activities led by On-Ramp teachers.

The event will feature approximately 500 student self-portraits featuring a variety of artistic styles and media, all integrated with students’ personal narrative writing, as well as student musical performances led by new music specialist teacher, Brenda Gravesen.

The Lower Lake High School drumline and a local brass quintet will also perform.

Konocti Unified is able to provide this district-wide elementary music program using face-to-face instruction supported by online resources because it was chosen as one of only 27 districts nationwide to receive a four-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education called the Assistance for Arts Education grant.

“Konocti Unified is thrilled for this opportunity to bring music and the arts to our elementary students,” said Konocti Unified Superintendent Becky Salato. “From solid research, we know that participation in the arts improves academic achievement, engages students and families, and builds the Social/Emotional Learning skills our students need for success in school and in life.”