“A study from the Arts Education Partnership indicated that students with higher levels of arts involvement were more likely to be high achievers on tests, were less likely to drop out by grade ten and were more engaged with learning during the school day” (J. O’Connell, former CA State Superintendent).

The lesson includes a short biography, examples of artwork, a description of the project and a demonstration in technique.  There’s a lot of room for individual creativity.  Students have to make decisions: what colors to use, sizes, shapes, to incorporate in a composition, what they want to communicate, how to balance a 3-D sculpture - they’re using their imagination and critical thinking skills. Once the materials are distributed, I visit each table and make sure everyone is comfortable with the process.  If I notice students not getting the standard - if the lesson was to show distance by overlapping and they have it the other way around for example -  I will demonstrate it again, as many times as needed until they understand.

I strive to make the art room a comfortable and engaging space for children to explore and experiment with a variety of media and techniques that will spark their creative genius, plus enhance their learning skills in academic subjects.