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11 Inspiring Things Our Arts Students Told Us in 2025

December is often one of the busiest, most stressful times of year—a time when we could all use a little inspiration to keep us going. Thankfully, our students inspire us every day and remind us of the magic and joy of this time of year, too.

To add a little joy to your day, we’ve gathered 11 things we heard from CAP students this year that really stood out to us. Some are funny, some are genuinely heartwarming, but all of them showcase the unique perspective our students bring to the world. They’re a testament to the infinite positive ways arts education affects young people.

Here are our 11 favorite quotes from CAP students this year, in no particular order:

"At first, I wanted to stay home and just play Fortnite or something. But the days passed by, and I really started to like it here. And now that I'm on my last day, I'm sad and stuff." - Larry, visual arts student

"CAP helped my voice be louder!" -Anonymous student

My CAP class helped me grow by helping me trust myself more and helping me become a better actor! –Performing arts student

I don’t really get to paint at home so instead of asking for a toy or something else, I asked my mom if I could do this art class instead." –Virginia, visual arts student

“Ms. Taylor says I have to take responsibility for myself as an artist. I have to take responsibility for myself as a leader.” –World drums student, Hyde Park Elementary

“I saw [violinist] Lindsey Stirling in concert, and I want to learn to play like her." –CAP beginner string student, Global Leadership Academy

“The best thing about my class is that it teaches a lot of things in a lot of ways, like if you messed up, then keep on going, no matter what. And if anything happens, you gotta continue.” –Performing arts student

“CAP class helped me understand there are a whole bunch of people with anxiety, and I learned that I don't have to have anxiety—I just have to chuck it out the window.” –Art counseling student

"Ms. Lindsay, will you please tell my mom all the things I'm good at?" –Leo, visual arts student, Radiant Collective

CAP helps me grow socially, and helps me learn a lot of songs, sight reading and a lot of other stuff! –Anonymous student

CAP helped me pay attention better to learning. –Arts integration student

Which quote was your favorite? We invite you to share it on social media to brighten your friends’ days as well—and don’t forget to tag @CathedralArts on Facebook or @CathedralArtsProject on Instagram!

December 15, 2025

For media inquiries, please contact media@capkids.org.

October is National Arts & Humanities Month, an annual celebration of the creativity and culture that enriches our lives. This month we honor the power of the arts to inspire, connect and transform our communities. Whether you’re picking up an instrument, a paintbrush, dancing to your favorite song or supporting local arts programs, YOU are part of this vibrant movement. 

Learn more about how CAP instructs, instills and inspires through standards-based instruction in dance, music, theatre and visual arts for students across educational settings in our Northeast Florida communities by visiting our link in bio.🌟

#NationalArtsAndHumanitiesMonth #TheArtsAddUp #CAPkidsjax
CAP is HIRING a full-time Board Certified Music Therapist! As a member of CAP’s Music Therapy team, you’ll have the unique opportunity to create meaningful change in young lives through the therapeutic application of music. Through your expertise and compassion, you’ll guide students on a journey of inspiration and growth, using music as a powerful tool for emotional expression, development and academic learning. Apply today at our link in bio!🎵
October is National Arts & Humanities Month, an annual celebration of the creativity and culture that enriches our lives. This month we honor the power of the arts to inspire, connect and transform our communities. 

In celebration, here’s a glimpse of our dedicated young musicians in the CAP String Orchestra Ensemble, working hard and learning together on a Saturday morning! 🎻⭐
CAP is hiring for multiple full-time roles! CAP’s vision is for Northeast Florida to lead the nation in providing essential and accessible arts education that recognizes, grows and amplifies every child’s unique skills and strengths. Join us in shaping the future of arts education in Jacksonville by visiting the link in bio to apply today. ✍️

* Director of Professional Development 
* Grants and Proposals Manager
* Curriculum Writer
* Data Analyst
* Research Assistant
* Board Certified Music Therapist

Voted one of the best places to work in Jacksonville, CAP offers a culture of creativity and collaboration in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville. We look forward to hearing from you!🎉
CAP is hiring for multiple full-time roles! Join us in shaping the future of arts education in Jacksonville by visiting our link in bio to apply today. 

Director of Professional Development | The Director of Professional Development will build and lead the training infrastructure that keeps CAP’s teaching artists, fellows, therapists and program directors performing at the highest level across Arts Ignite, Art Smarts and CAPabilities programs. 

Grants and Proposals Manager | As a member of CAP’s Philanthropy team, you'll manage a portfolio of institutional funders from first opportunity through final report, building the systems and evidence base that strengthen CAP's ability to secure funding and steward every dollar with integrity. 

Curriculum Writer | The Curriculum Writer will be the voice behind CAP’s lessons, curricula and professional development content across various program expertise. It’s a role for someone who can sit with a teaching artist, fellow or therapist, draw out what they know and turn it into high-quality writing that is engaging and classroom ready.

Voted one of the best places to work in Jacksonville, CAP offers a culture of creativity and collaboration in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville. Join the CAP team to support its mission to provide arts education that impacts children and young adults for the rest of their lives.🌟
Behind every note played and every song learned is a story of dedication and perseverance. At CAP, our students discover that learning to read music and play an instrument isn’t just about talent, it’s about hard work and grit. The rewards go far beyond the stage, fueling academic growth as well as helping students build focus, discipline, team work and problem solving skills that stay with them for life. 🎻
#CAPkidsjax #ArtsEd #TheArtsAddUp
National Arts in Education Week is a nationwide celebration of the transformative power of the arts in education. This year’s theme—Every Student, Every Community—highlights how arts education not only empowers individual students, but also strengthens entire communities. By nurturing creativity, arts education inspires innovation and collaboration, helping students develop the skills to solve problems and work together. These creative thinkers go on to spark new ideas making their communities more vibrant.

Learn more about how the Cathedral Arts Project is on a mission to make high-quality arts education and therapeutic services the bridge to better grades, healthier futures and a ready workforce at capkids.org! ✨
#ArtsEd #TheArtsAddUp
Calling all visual artists grades 4 - 6 📣  CAP Studio Artists is offering a Fall Session in Drawing & Painting! Guarantee a semester of creativity and growth by enrolling your young artist today. 🎨

When: Thursdays | 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Sep. 17 – Dec. 17, 2026

CAP has partnered with CoRK Arts District to host this program. Classes will be held at the CoRKSHOP at 2689 Rosselle Street, 32204. 

CAP Studio Artists (CAPSA) is an immersive visual art program which provides students with the opportunity to pursue their passion for the visual arts while expanding their creative skills. In this hands-on drawing and painting class, students will explore a variety of artistic techniques, materials, and styles while developing their own unique artistic voice. From sketching and observational drawing to painting with color, texture and composition, students will experiment, create and build confidence in their skills. Spots are limited so register at our link in bio today! 🌟
Do you know a passionate young dancer in grades 4–8? The Cathedral Arts Project Dance Ensemble is now welcoming new members! Led by Jacqueline Peterson, CAP Teaching Artist Fellow in Dance, this select group is made up of current and former CAP dance students who are eager to take their skills to the next level. 

Ensemble members receive advanced training in both classical and contemporary dance, collaborate with guest artists and participate in specialized workshops and performances. Encourage the young dancers in your life to join a community where creativity and growth take center stage. Learn more at our link in bio!👯🩰

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