STACY A. ANDERSON, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Michelle Obama is thanking art educators for not only teaching children skills, but for putting a “spring in their step” and giving them something to look forward to after school.

The first lady presented national arts and humanities awards Monday to 12 after-school programs from across the country and one international program.

The White House ceremony included a head-bopping musical performance from the Delta Blues Museum Arts and Education Program Band of Clarksdale, Mississippi, and remarks by 16-year-old Jennifer Guadalupe Gonzalez of Chicago, who explained how acting in a Shakespeare production gave her a boost of confidence.

The 2014 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards are hosted by the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities in partnership with three national cultural agencies.