Classroom Connections

Enrich. Educate. Entertain.

Since 2008, Classroom Connections has served over 13,000 students throughout Monterey County by bringing our featured Sunset Presents artists into local schools. Classroom Connections is uniquely in-depth, by working in individual classrooms the artists have more time to devote to students on an interactive, personal level, in an atmosphere where students feel comfortable. This comprehensive program is designed to foster imagination, confidence, and a sense of possibility.  If you are interested in sponsoring a child's experience with the program, you can make a donation HERE. For as little as $50, you could remove a financial barrier for a child that will allow them to experience the entire process detailed below.

How it Works:

Step 1. Preparation: Students experience an interactive class led by our Arts Educators to place into context the touring artist's performance.

Step 2. Artist Workshop: Sunset Presents artists visit school classrooms and teach students about their art form through interactive processes and discussion.

Step 3. Sunset Center Matinee: Students, teachers, and chaperones attend a one-hour, morning matinee performance by Sunset Presents artists.

Step 4. Follow-up: We conduct post-performance surveys for students and teachers to gather feedback about their experience.

This program works on a first come, first serve basis. Our priority of equitable ways means we seek attendance from schools who have not yet had the opportunity to participate. If you are interested in participating, please email Community Engagement Manager, Elana Kline-Thompson at elana@sunsetcenter.org. When emailing please include the following information:

  • School Name 
  • Teacher Name(s) 
  • Grade Level(s) 
  • Students per Class 
  • Chaperone Count 
  • Classroom Schedule 
  • Tech Availability (Projectors, Wi-Fi, etc.)

This program is provided at NO cost. The only cost not covered by us is the transportation cost from your school to the Sunset Center on the day of the matinee performance. If your school is unable to participate due to lack funding for transportation, please contact elana@sunsetcenter.org. Limited financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

NOTE: Chaperone Policy - We seat teachers, students, and families together and will accommodate as many chaperones as possible, however, priority seating is given to students in the auditorium.

Classroom Connections would not be possible without the generous support from individual donors and the following organizations:

Date Presenter Title Action

March 2024

Fri. Mar 22nd, 10:30 am
AR

Lula Washington Dance Theatre - Classroom Connections Student Matinee