Santa Fe Opera has received a $1 million grant from #startsmall to support its Active Learning Thorugh Opera (ALTO) Program.

Started in 1993, ALTO has led more than 300 arts-integrated, multi-session residences in over 30 schools across five New Mexico School Districts. The program has led nearly 250 Professional Learning workshops for New Mexican educators.

Per an official press release, in 2023-24, “10 ALTO teaching artists will lead over 100 five-session residencies, engaging 1,500+ students.”

The arts are like a special sauce that can help New Mexico kids see that school is for them.” Cristina González, Fine Arts Coordinator of the Santa Fe Public Schools added. “The ALTO program is the only district-supported professional development program for arts integration that is open to all K-12 teachers across SFPS. With the backdrop of an ever-changing and always-challenging educational landscape, the ALTO program closes teaching and learning gaps in Santa Fe. Teachers and students leave inspired and connected to learning.”