Springfield 2nd graders learn lessons through the "Nutcracker" ballet

Every Springfield second grader got a chance to watch the Springfield ballet's production of "The Nutcracker."

Getting more than 2,000 second graders to and from downtown Springfield is a big undertaking. It's part of Springfield Public School's initiative to expose children to fine arts, something that educators say will make kids smarter.

But not every child gets a chance to experience the arts with their families. That's why Springfield Public Schools makes sure its children get those experiences.

"It helps the way that they think, their problem solving abilities, the team dynamic that comes from participation of the arts, it all enriches their experiences and in Springfield we are very concerned about the whole child and the arts touch on all those dynamics that aren't necessarily covered by reading, writing and math," said Springfield Public Schools official, Marty Moore.

The Springfield Ballet's Nutcracker is this weekend. Tickets costs anywhere between 20-30 dollars a piece.