Stories That Build Readers, Leaders, and Stronger Communities!
Stories That Build Readers, Leaders, and Stronger Communities!
To ensure that all children and youth, especially those in underserved communities, have equitable opportunities to thrive academically, creatively, and emotionally, The Heart of Art engages schools, libraries, and community partners to expand access to literacy, socio-emotional learning, and the performing arts. Through our innovative, arts-integrated programs, we empower young people to strengthen reading skills, build confidence, develop emotional awareness, and discover the power of their own voices while fostering joy, self-expression, and lasting community connection.
Big Ideas, Real Impact.
Nearly 70% of fourth graders across the United States are reading below proficiency, limiting opportunities for academic success and long-term economic mobility. The Heart of Art is changing this story by strengthening communities through literacy, socio-emotional learning, and the performing arts, ensuring that children and youth have the tools they need to read with confidence, express themselves boldly, and thrive in school and in life.
70%
of fourth graders nationwide are reading below proficiency.
100%
Arts-integrated programming grounded in literacy and socio-emotional learning.
2 Programs
Designed to support youth ages 5–17.
Step Into the Story
Our Approach
We know that strong readers become strong communicators, leaders, and changemakers. Our model integrates literacy, performing arts, and social-emotional learning to help children build critical academic skills, confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Learn More
What We’re Reading
We know that stories shape how young people see themselves and others. By featuring books that serve as both mirrors and windows, we intentionally elevate Black, Brown, and other authors of color to help students build literacy skills, foster empathy, and gain an appreciation for diverse perspectives.
Learn More
Why it Matters
America is facing a reading recession. According to the National Assessment Governing Board, average reading scores on The Nation's Report Card declined by 2 points for both fourth- and eighth-grade students in 2024, continuing a downward trend that began before the pandemic. No state reported gains in eighth-grade reading, and reading achievement remains below pre-pandemic levels nationwide.
At The Heart of Art, we believe literacy is the foundation of all learning. Reading is not just a subject. It is the gateway to understanding math, science, history, the arts, and the world around us. When children struggle with literacy, every aspect of their education is affected. By integrating literacy, performing arts, and social-emotional learning, we help young people build the academic skills, confidence, empathy, and resilience they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Learn More
Source: National Assessment Governing Board. (2025). The Nation's Report Card shows declines in reading, some progress in 4th grade math. https://www.nagb.gov/news-and-events/news-releases/2025/nations-report-card-decline-in-reading-progress-in-math.html