Published for the Arts Based School Community
April 2, 2026
School is in session, Friday, April 3 to make up the missed day, March 16.
Kindergarten Attends Carnival of the Animals
Ewing Theater at North Campus
Friday, April 17 | 8:45–9:15 AM
We are excited for our kindergarten students to attend a delightful live piano concert featuring selections from Carnival of the Animals, a charming musical suite composed by Camille Saint-Saëns.
This special performance will take place in the Ewing Theater at North Campus and will be brought to life by talented pianists Marti Bessinger, ABS South music teacher, and Carmine Mann, a former ABS parent, with engaging narration by Mary Boudreault, ABS North music teacher.
Written in 1886, Carnival of the Animals is a whimsical and imaginative piece that takes listeners on a musical journey through the animal kingdom. The suite includes fourteen short movements, each depicting a different animal through playful melodies and expressive musical storytelling. From the graceful Swan to the lively Aquarium and the humorous Tortoises, each piece paints a vivid musical picture of the creatures it represents.
Students have been learning about this composer and music in class, making this live performance a wonderful opportunity to experience the piece in an engaging and memorable way. The program will last approximately 30 minutes and will include a brief instructional component along with time for student questions.
Fernando Jones Blues Camp Coming to ABS
We are excited to share that internationally recognized blues educator and musician Fernando Jones will be bringing his Blues Camp to several locations in Winston-Salem, including The Arts Based School (ABS) on June 11–12.
This engaging program introduces students to the rich history and cultural roots of the blues through hands-on music instruction, storytelling, and performance. As part of the visit, Fernando will also host a special master class for our 6th grade students, giving them a unique opportunity to learn directly from a professional musician and educator.
Families interested in participating in the Blues Camp or learning more about registration and locations are encouraged to watch for additional details in upcoming communications.
Calling All Artists…
“100 for 100” is one element of our Spring Fundraiser Community Creates! We ask 100 local artists to each create an original work of art on the provided 8x10 canvas. The only guidance being the idea of “community”. Each artist is encouraged to explore the theme in any way they are inspired.
On May 2, 2026 each of our 100 (unsigned) canvases will be displayed at the Arts Based School Community Creates! Fundraising event.
ABS is proud to provide affordable, accessible original works of art to the Winston-Salem community while raising $10,000 for the school. All works should be signed and dated only on the backs of the canvas. Patrons will purchase pieces based on their connection to the work and not the perceived value of the artist. All canvases must be completed and returned to ABS by post or in person no later than
April 24, 2026 If you know of a local artist (or are one yourself) who would like to participate, please pick up 8 x 10 canvas in the school’s front office.
Community Creates!- May 2,
Everyone is invited to Community Creates! Community Creates draws a mix of ABS parents, staff, Board members, artists and many people throughout the community that attend for the chance to walk away with some fantastic artwork, or at the very least, have a fabulous evening out! Tickets are $60/single or 2 for $100 and will be available for purchase now at communitycreates.org - Saturday, May 2nd from 7pm–11pm!
Want to get involved?
Become a Sponsor – Advertise for your company or business… Sponsorship Package info
Submit Artwork or Volunteer – Contact Robin Hollis ([email protected])
100 for $100-
If you are interested in volunteering for Community Creates, please complete this form.
Volleyball Camp Returns
Coach Bri will be offering a Volleyball Club for grades 6th-8th starting the week of April 13th. 6th and 7th will be combined and play on Wednesdays from 3-3:45. 8th grade will play on Thursdays from 3-3:45. She will only take the first 12 of each group that signs up. The club will last until the week of May 18th! Google Form Here
Parent Council Notes:
Find opportunities for Pizza Friday, Teacher Appreciation, Car Line, and log miscellaneous or classroom volunteer hours.
Teacher Appreciation Luncheon
Our Parent Council is excited to host a special Teacher Appreciation Luncheon during Teacher Appreciation Week to celebrate the incredible dedication of our entire staff—including teachers, administration, specials, EC staff, custodial staff, and bus drivers—at both campuses.
The luncheon will take place on Wednesday, May 6, with our North Campus celebration on Thursday, May 7. Staff members will be able to select from a variety of delicious options provided by Apple Spice Catering.
If you would like to sponsor lunch for one teacher or staff member, please sign up for a slot using the link below and send $15 via Venmo to @artsbasedschool. Your support helps make this event a meaningful way to show appreciation for the many people who care for and support our students each day. We have raised almost $400 so far, we welcome additional contributions!
Parents can sign up and donate here:
Next Meeting:
Friday, April 17th at North Campus Café and on Zoom
Submit Your Questions for Parent Council here
Nominations are open for the 2026–2027 ABS Parent Council!
Parent Council meets monthly (alternating times and locations) plus a monthly lunch planning meeting. All positions are open for nomination and voting, even where current members are continuing. We could especially use nominations for the following positions:
- Teacher Appreciation (both campuses)
- Event Coordinator (North Campus - Fall Fest Coordinator)
- Book Fair Coordinator (South)
- Volunteer Coordinator (South)
Interested in a role or want to nominate someone? We'd love to have you involved - we have not received any nominations so far, and welcome any interest!
Around Town…
Everyone is welcome at the Piedmont Earth Day Fair on April 18th from 10AM-4PM at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds! Enjoy great food and music, activities for adults and kids, and 120+ earth-friendly exhibitors.
Ways to get involved and learn more about ABS:
- Follow us on Social Media
- Catch up on Thursday Notes you may have missed
- Explore the ABS website
- Make sure we have best contact information so that you receive all communications