Experienced School Partnership
PRAA has successfully partnered with CPS schools to implement high-impact arts programs aligned with state and national standards.
PROVEN STUDENT IMPACT
Our programs foster confidence,discipline, teamwork, and creativeexpression while strengtheningconnections between students,schools, and community.
STRUCTURED ART PROGRAM
We provide the curriculum, professional instructors, program management, and evaluation needed to deliver high-quality arts education.
Life Skills Development
Students learn character education, health & nutrition, and social-emotional skills that prepare them for future success in school, careers, and community leadership roles.
WHAT PRAA PROVIDES
PRAA works with schools to deliver complete arts programming, including:
- Conservatory-trained music instructors
- Bilingual endorsed instructors
- Award winning artist instructors
- Curriculum aligned with Illinois learning standards
- 30–60 hours of instruction per year
- Instrument instruction including cuatro, guitar, violin, and percussion
- Student performances and showcases
- Program coordination and evaluation
Programs typically serve 20–30 students per school and are designed for
grades 3–12.
Student Benefits
Our programs support both academic and social development by
helping students build:
- Confidence and self-expression
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Cultural awareness and pride
- Creativity and problem-solving
- Emotional regulation and resilience
- Better understanding of restorative justice
Music and Art education cultivates the discipline and creative focus essential for academic rigor. Through high-quality performance and exhibition, students develop a tangible sense of accomplishment, fostering the social-emotional resilience and self-agency required for lifelong success in a global economy.
PARTNER WITH US!
PRAA works with Schools to bring meaningful arts
opportunities directly to students.
Together we can expand access to arts education and empower
students through culture, creativity, and music.
Let’s collaborate to bring arts programming to your school.
Puerto Rican Arts Alliance
Latin Music Project
CONTACT
Jose Luís Illanes
Director of Education and Workforce Initiatives
josel@praachicago.org | 773 - 342 -8865 x410
Education
800
+
students served annually
Literacy
85
%
improvement in reading scores
Program Directors
Jose Luis Illanes, Somos Uno Project Director, has over 40 years of experience in education and community service, including roles such as teacher, program coordinator, assistant principal, and principal in Chicago Public Schools. He holds multiple master’s degrees and a doctorate in Educational Leadership.