In collaboration with the Paris Henry County Arts Council, the Youth for the Arts program supports developing meaningful activities for Paris and Henry County youth. Programs include both visual and performing arts, increasing visibility of area youth and their artistic endeavors. Out intent is to engage youth in learning more about the arts,empowering them to grow as individuals and providing them with opportunities for self-expression. Activities such as the Krider Idol competition will provide leadership and educational experiences for area youth.

Paris Special School District has a long history of commitment to the arts. Each year, through donations from the Henry County Arts Council, Memphis Arts Council, and Hancock Trust Fund, the students in PSSD are provided with artistic experiences ranging from traveling puppet shows to Kenneth Jackson "The Blues Man" to a Coach Bus trip to Nashville for a live performance at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.

An artist of the month is highlighted at Rhea Elementary School. There, our K-2 students become acquainted with the great artists, potters, and painters. Paris Elementary School begins our PSSD strings program. All students in grades 3-8 are given the opportunity to learn to play violin, viola, cello, or bass. Art classes, including pottery and ceramics, are also available to every students at Paris Elementary School.

At Inman Middle School, additions to the arts include chorus, band, strings, and electives that focus on creative, expressive, and commercial arts. PSSD has been among the top 100 school systems in the nation for our K-8 music program. We are proud of our heritage with the arts, and look forward to the continued support from and cooperation with the Paris Henry County Arts Council. The arts support the commitment of the PSSD to educating the Whole Child. It is our goal that every student experience a healthy, safe, supportive, engaging, and challenging place in which to reach their full potential.