Art heals. I am the Art teacher at The West School. The West School Program provides day treatment level services for Portland Public Schools' students of all ages. Students with challenging behavioral and emotional needs are placed at West. In this highly supportive, therapeutic environment students receive the individualized support they need to experience academic and social growth. It is the goal of the program to have students learn the skills they need to return to their neighborhood schools as soon as possible.
The program currently does not have funding for Art materials. As the Art teacher I have been providing materials out of my own pocket and have used some basic supplies that are left over from last year. These supplies are running low. These students thrive with hands on learning. Materials such as watercolors and watercolor paper will allow these students to experience the joy of real artists materials. A paper marbling kit will be used to create handmade books that students will use in literature class to create their own personal stories. Adhesive foam will be used in a cooperative printmaking project. All of the prints will be displayed as a paper quilt and permanently displayed in the school. All of the art that is created will be displayed in a school art show. Art class allows these students an opportunity to express themselves in a healthy and creative way.
I would like to purchase art materials for my students. I hope to provide my students with a positive outlet to express their feelings in a way that is meaningful. Giving these students the opportunity to work with quality art materials will inspire them and give them the message that their art is valued and they are important.
Your help will inspire these students and ensure that they are supported in the process of becoming productive community members.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. J. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.