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Our Collective Impact Model

We believe lasting change in arts education happens when we work together. That’s why we use a Collective Impact model—a structured way to coordinate efforts across sectors, organizations, and communities to achieve shared goals. This approach helps ensure that every student in New Jersey has access to a high-quality, equitable arts education.

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Core Pillars of the Model

A Shared Vision

All stakeholders are united around the belief that the arts are essential to student success and have a common vision for change

Collaborative Action

Cross-sector partnerships—educators, policymakers, students, artists, and advocates—co-create strategies.

Shared Measurement

Aligned collection of data and measuring results consistently for the sector.

Continuous Communication

We listen, learn, and align through regular dialogue and shared tools.

Mutually Reinforcing Activities

Different groups lead efforts that support one another—amplifying collective progress.

Central Support

Arts Ed NJ serves as the backbone organization, coordinating and connecting efforts across the field.

Get Involved

Steering Committee

Our statewide leadership body, guiding the strategic vision for arts education across New Jersey.

Ideal for: Leaders from statewide organizations representing a coalition or statewide social justice effort connected to arts education.

Working Groups(opens in new tab)

Focused teams and hands-on collaborators who co-develop tools and resources for the field and addressing priority areas like policy, equity, and quality metrics.

Ideal for: Those with expertise, energy, and interest in moving specific initiatives forward

Board of Directors(opens in new tab)

Governing board with policy and fiduciary responsibilities for Arts Ed NJ.

Ideal for: Those interested in the sustainability and institutional success of Arts Ed NJ.

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Steering Committee

Our Steering Committee brings together statewide leaders and changemakers to shape policy, strategy, and collective action for arts education access and equity.

Committee Purpose

The Arts Ed NJ Steering Committee serves as a dynamic coalition of leaders and organizations who have a stake in advancing arts education equity and access across New Jersey. This committee operates alongside Arts Ed NJ’s Staff and Board of Directors, providing strategic guidance, advocacy, and shared leadership on key issues affecting the field.

Through collaboration, collective action, and policy influence, the Steering Committee helps shape statewide priorities, shared strategies, and pathways for progress, ensuring that arts education remains a fundamental right for all students.

By convening diverse voices, organizations, and leaders, the committee will shape the future of arts education policy, amplify collective advocacy, and ensure that every student has access to quality arts education.

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Steering Committee Roles

Strategic Leadership & Advocacy

Guide statewide arts education initiatives by identifying priority issues, shaping policy, and championing equitable access across all communities.

Field Representation & Feedback

Act as a bridge between the field and decision-makers, ensuring that diverse perspectives—especially from students and educators—influence statewide strategies.

Collaboration & Leadership

Foster cross-sector partnerships and provide leadership for issue-focused subcommittees, including those on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Advocacy, and Policy.

Amplification & Collective Action

Strengthen advocacy through coordinated messaging, elevate student and partner achievements, and increase the visibility of arts education efforts across the state.

Engagement & Equity Commitment

Demonstrate active participation by attending meetings, mobilizing networks, sharing key information, and upholding a strong commitment to equity and shared impact.

Who’s In the Room

Our Steering Committee reflects the diversity of the arts education ecosystem in New Jersey including representatives from the New Jersey Department of Education, School and District Arts Leaders, Arts Education Associations, General Education Associations, Higher Education Institutions and Nonprofits and Cultural Organizations

We strive for inclusive and representative leadership to ensure all voices shape the future of arts education.