This report describes the creation of New Horizons, an ArtsConnection comprehensive model for talent identification and development in the arts. New Horizons focuses on how schools can identify and appreciate artistic talents, how teachers can help students use their artistic abilities to improve their school performance, and how economically disadvantaged families can take advantage of educational and cultural resources to help children develop gifts and talents. ArtsConnection provided instructional opportunities for students, teachers, and families, and a support structure to help students overcome some of the obstacles they faced in pursuing their talents. Professional artists in dance, music, and theater; curriculum developers and facilitators; teachers and school specialists; and highly supportive parents collaborated in 10 schools to create a program that demonstrated how the arts can help students to achieve both artistic and academic potential. Research conducted throughout the project showed that artistically talented students reading below grade level demonstrated significant improvement in both classroom performance and standardized test scores when involved in a combination of arts instruction and academic assistance that built on their artistic strengths. The report includes information on talent identification processes, the performing arts curriculum, professional development programs, school partnerships, and research and assessment. (Contains 24 references.) (Author/CR)