OMA at Van Buskirk

Chika Willis
Arts Integration Specialist

... was born and raised in Kyoto City in Japan. She studied in Bukkyo University and earned a bachelor's degree in Japanese Literature and received a provisional teaching license for secondary education in Japan. Instead of pursuing teaching careers in Kyoto, Chika came to Tucson and attended CESL at the University of Arizona learning English with people from all over the world. Soon she earned an Associate degree of American Indian Studies at Pima College. Chika decided to become a teacher in America and began study in the College of Education at the University. Her OMA at Van Buskirk work was recognized by school staff and awarded the TUSD campus teacher of the year in 2017-18. Chika enjoys drawing and painting and is delighted that her art skills have helped her students' learning and their success.

We blend music, opera, dance, theatre and visual arts into your child's classroom learning.

We can’t wait for your child to learn and participate in the arts!

Research shows that students who participate in the arts develop strong critical thinking, problem-solving and academic skills.

Every child deserves a rich and engaging education, and OMA Gold is one of the ways our teachers make that possible.

Why OMA Works?

Arts integration curriculum at each grade level is determined by brain-based research, multi-intelligence learning and the neurological development of children.

Students learn rhythm to develop verbal communication and literacy skills.

1^st

Through learning about opera, students build a connection between writing and music.

2^nd

Creative movement helps expand students’ vocabularies and develop critical thinking skills.

3^rd

Through weekly recorder performance/composition classes, students make progress with skills such as listening, processing visual information and coordinating movement.

4^th

Students play a stringed instrument, which further develops the left brain/right brain intellect.

5^th

Everything students have learned over the last five years comes together, with students gaining a better understanding of the arts through attending professional performances and connecting with community arts partners.

We are committed to providing educational experiences which:

foster creativity
build community
honor our humanity

Learn more about our programs & resources.

Fine & Performing Arts
520-225-4900
2025 E. Winsett St., Tucson, AZ 85719