The arts enable both young and old to understand the ties that bind us culturally, personally, and globally in the present as well as the past.

When the arts are part of an educational environment, barriers that exist between disciplines are broken down by a sense of discovery and wonder. Students are given the opportunity to exercise their imaginations, make new connections, transcend limitations, and realize their potential.

The Office of Cultural Affairs implements programming that enable all who visit and live in our city to experience the joy of learning through the arts with the understanding that the arts encourage a realization that learning is a never-ending process. Through the Arts In Education programming umbrella, the Office of Cultural Affairs develops programming tailored to meet the needs of Atlanta's diverse cultural community.

ARTSReacH, AIE's primary programming vehicle, partners with community-based organizations to offer art programs to young people in otherwise "underserved" communities.

ARTSCooL, the Office's arts-based employment program, provides arts instruction and job training to Atlanta area high school students.

The City's oldest art education facility is the Chastain Arts Center and continues to offer the most stimulating and unique arts classes available.

Lastly, the Atlanta Jazz Festival hosts a variety of Jazz Education workshops, seminars, and performances accessible to Atlanta's residents and visitors. It is through these programs the OCA enhances our quality of living.