Kennedy Center takes arts education program to Mo.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is expanding a program to ensure the arts remain part of education in a Missouri school district.

The Washington-based arts center will link local arts groups in Springfield, Mo., with the public schools to help teach students in grades K-8. Organizers announced their plans Tuesday.

Springfield is the second city for the program. It began in Sacramento, Calif., in October.

The idea is to sustain arts education in an affordable way as schools struggle with budget cuts. The participants will draft long-range plans specific to each city to ensure all students have access to music, theater and the visual arts.

The Kennedy Center is accepting applications from other school systems across the country.