Board hears plan for Individualized Art Assessment Pathway; three‑year pilot proposed for 2026–27

The Huntington Board of Education heard a presentation May 11 on a proposed Individualized Art Assessment Pathway (IAAP), an arts‑centered graduation pathway that district leaders want to pilot in 2026–27.

Dr. Rob Wadewa, director of fine and performing arts K–12, described the IAAP as “the individualized art assessment pathway,” a point‑based, multi‑year sequence that would allow students to build coursework, artifacts and a culminating project in an arts pathway. “It’s an opportunity for students to take advantage of the 4+1 pathway where students can opt to have another path towards graduation,” he said.

The proposal follows earlier state and pilot work and would align course sequences so students can stay in a single arts pathway (for example, drawing and painting or orchestra) through successive levels. Wadewa said the district committee has drafted about a 10‑page guidelines document outlining expectations and a point system that would award bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels for sustained participation, presentations and performances.

The timeline offered calls for a 2026–27 pilot year, a multi‑year portfolio and artifact development process for participating students, and the potential for a first IAAP graduate as early as 2028–29. Wadewa also outlined planned pathways such as broadcasting, ceramics and music, and described thinking about recognition elements (stickers or seals) tied to students’ specialization.

Board members praised the proposal and noted it would create alternative pathways for students who excel in the arts or for whom nontraditional pathways better support graduation and engagement. The IAAP remains in draft form; stakeholders will continue refining the guidelines and implementation details before any formal adoption.