In February 2026, philanthropist Harvey E. Najim renewed his multi-year commitment to Generation NEXT to ensure teachers throughout Bexar County can receive training in Arts Integration strategies. To recognize Mr. Najim’s extraordinary generosity, we have named the program the Harvey E. Najim Arts Integration Program.
Arts Integration, the backbone of our education philosophy, is an approach to teaching and learning in which students build their understanding of academic concepts through an art form. Arts integrated instruction includes learning about an art form and a general curricular topic and melding those together to build greater, deeper understanding of both. Through these techniques, the arts become a regular part of the classroom experience. For students, Arts Integration improves collaboration, social-emotional skills, engagement, and understanding. For teachers, using arts integration techniques improves job satisfaction. Through partnerships with the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and Wolf Trap Early Learning Through the Arts, Generation NEXT provides professional development in Arts Integration for educators.
Our Professional Development opportunities share arts integration strategies for teachers of grades K-12. Presenters are professional educators who have been trained through the Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education program. Because arts integrated instruction requires students to work together collaboratively, share feedback, and take risks, a large component of the training addresses social-emotional behavior. Gen NEXT professional development takes place at The Tobin Center, virtually, and on school campuses.
To further support arts integration, donations can be made to Generation NEXT. Your support for this vital effort will provide free professional development training and classroom experiences, allowing Bexar County educators to reach students in revolutionary ways and pave their way to success through education.
