Recently, RISD trustees heard an annual update from RISD Fine Arts and Athletics. The presentation highlighted the opportunities, experiences, participation, and impact that co- and extra-curricular opportunities offer to students. Highlights of the presentation included:
- 4,687 junior high/middle school students and 7,430 high school students participate in Fine Arts programs, including visual arts, theatre, dance, music, orchestra, choir, and band.
- Students enrolled in Fine Arts have higher average GPAs (89.6% vs. 86.8%) and daily attendance rates (92.7% vs. 89.7%) compared to non-participants.
- 2,489 junior high/middle school and 3,253 high school students participate in athletics, with a wide variety of sports offered at both levels.
- Student-athletes have higher GPAs (90.2% vs. 87.6%) and attendance rates (93.8% vs. 90.4%) compared to non-athletes.
- RISD has been named a best Community for Music Education for the 13th consecutive year, and a District of Distinction for Visual Arts for the 4th consecutive year.
- Multiple district and bi-district championships across football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, track, and other sports.
- Dozens of athletes named to academic all-district and all-state teams, including academic all-state.
- Dozens of student-athletes are moving on to play at the collegiate level.
Richardson ISD’s Fine Arts and Athletics programs are thriving, with strong participation, high achievement, and clear evidence of positive impact on student outcomes. The district’s ongoing investment and strategic planning aim to further enhance these programs and maintain RISD’s reputation and performance as a leader in both areas.
