Greetings from Perpich Center for Arts Education!

The past weeks have been heavy for Minnesota and for many of the communities we serve. The fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving federal agents have shaken our region and raised deep concerns about the safety and well-being of students, families, and educators who are experiencing fear and real harm right now. Like many of you, I have been processing grief and what this means for our communities.

Allegra Smisek, Executive Director

Perpich serves students at our Arts High School as well as thousands of arts educators and school communities across Minnesota. We know this moment is being felt in classrooms, rehearsal spaces, and communities statewide. For many, it is personal. For all of us, it is a reminder of how closely connected our schools are to what is happening beyond their walls.

Our commitment to belonging and care matters even more right now. The arts offer a powerful way to process what feels overwhelming and to stay connected to one another. At Perpich, we will continue to support spaces where students and educators can create, reflect, and use their art to share their stories and speak with courage about what matters to them.

I am deeply grateful for Minnesota’s educators who show up each day with compassion and steadiness. In this heavy and complex moment, Perpich remains committed to leading with humanity and standing with students and educators across Minnesota. We will continue to listen, care, and use the arts to help our communities move forward together.

With gratitude,

Allegra Smisek
Executive Director | Perpich Center for Arts Education