Evaluator Dr. Dent Davis said, “In our troubled and rapidly changing world, there are few more important things than teaching students how to be innovative and creative. The arts are a key part of that process. That’s a big reason why the B. I. G. (Be Inspired Grants) Program of the Tryon Fine Arts Center intrigued me. But reading the applications themselves was even more impressive. I was not prepared for the variety, and even the number of applications, their creativity, or the sheer numbers of students who could benefit from such a modest program. B. I. G. is a small project with a big impact, and a great way to enhance artistic opportunities for students in our community.”

Following the evaluation session, the scores were tallied with the highest scores receiving full funding until $5,000 was met.   Applicants were informed as to whether or not they received funding by email on July 1.    TFAC will be holding a reception to award the grant funding on Aug. 21 for the teachers and their principals, as well as school administrators from both counties.

TFAC is currently raising money to replace the $5,000 advanced by the board of directors.

“We are anticipating a partnership with local businesses and individuals in this exciting project that will encourage creativity and the arts in our schools,” said Carruth.

Tryon Fine Arts Center (TFAC) is a nonprofit organization that operates and programs a 300 seat performance venue and a 150 seat amphitheater for music, theatre, dance and lectures on Melrose Avenue in Tryon, N.C.  In addition to presenting programming for a wide variety of audiences, TFAC also makes the arts accessible to local students through education and outreach programs.  For more information or to contribute to the Arts in Education “Be Inspired Grant” project, call Tryon Fine Arts Center at 828-859-8322.