On December 7, KIPP Empower Academy (KEA) families had the opportunity to experience the arts in a truly special way thanks to LACMA’s (LA County Museum of Art) NexGen celebration.
LACMA generously sponsored transportation for our school, allowing a group of 35 excited families to spend the day exploring, creating, and connecting with world-class art.
From hands-on workshop stations to colorful face painting to a guided docent tour, scholars explored art in ways that were both playful and deeply meaningful. For KEA art teacher Carmina Cortesgonzalez, the trip represented far more than just a fun outing — it was an opportunity to spark curiosity and open new doors of discovery for her students.
Ms. Cortesgonzalez shared that for many of her scholars, stepping into a museum like LACMA was a brand-new experience, which made every moment even more meaningful. She believes that experiences like this expand students’ imaginations and strengthen essential skills.
“Art allows us to connect, express emotions, and see the world through different perspectives. By exposing students to the arts, we nurture their imagination and, most importantly, strengthen their critical thinking skills,” she said.
The day also created special moments of connection between her and her students. Ms. Cortesgonzalez described how stepping outside their usual classroom routines—laughing together, dancing even though she has “two left feet,” and simply sharing the experience — helped deepen their relationships. “These experiences remind students that learning is not confined to four walls — it is alive, joyful, and shared,” she reflected.
One of the most memorable moments came when students recognized an original Andy Warhol piece they had studied in class just a week earlier. Seeing it in person sparked an unforgettable “aha” moment. “They realized that the artworks I show on the projector actually exist in real life,” she said.
She hopes that experiencing art this way inspires them and shows them that they, too, can create anything they imagine. “Art is everywhere, and experiences like this show them that their creativity has value, purpose, and a place in the world,” she said.
Experiences like LACMA’s NexGen celebration help students see their learning come alive, deepen their sense of belonging, and imagine new possibilities — just a few of the many reasons families continue to #ChooseKIPP.