Students of all abilities come together in my high school art room. Some have had art since their early days. Others never had art before. Our classes are full, averaging 35 per class. Skill levels run from no skills or confidence to quite talented. But everyone is busy and challenged here.
This is a magnet public school in the city.
Students travel from all over town to attend our school. We are not without our struggles, especially when it comes to the school budget. Eighty-two percent qualify for free lunches. Despite everything, though, our students achieve. Many go onto college; 10% get full scholarships to college. Our students are diverse and revel in their differences. Groups of friends are multicultural. They are engaged and very bright. These great kids give me hope for the future. Teaching my students is so rewarding. I strive to help them become more creative. It is my goal to help them build their skills and confidence as creative people.
My Project
Light pads are a wonderful tool in the art room. These lit boxes allow the user to trace designs. We have used them for self portraits and pattern design. Through Donors Choose in the past, I got several for students to use in my classes. Because my classes are so large, I don't have enough light pads and students are forced to take turns using them. Here, I request 4 more. Two or three students can share 1 light pad and the class can be much more productive. The benefits of light pads are two fold. Light pads teach how to draw and allow for the non artist to achieve pleasing work. Tracing builds confidence. Students trace shapes and forms. This kinesthetic learning makes drawing freehand more comfortable to them. Whether they have artistic talent or not, they can make images that they can be proud of when using light pads. We need sharpies for drawing, too. These markers are waterproof and allow for painting over the designs.
When my students overcome the fear that comes when he or she can't draw, a world opens.
This fear freezes a student's creativity. Once confidence develops, students take chances in art. This leads to discovery. Students build their skills and confidence as creative beings. Believe it or not, this is what the light pads will do. I have seen it happen. The joy a student has because they made something they are proud of does so much for them. The future belongs to the confident and creative.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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 Mrs. Fitzpatrick and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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