Would you like to make a difference in many kids futures? I currently teach four Art I classes as well as two Fine Arts Survey classes. Our school is a public high school, grades 9-12, in Louisiana. It was built in 1969 and has never had a make-over. We are very privileged to have the Special Education students, severely profound, a GED program and many physically challenged students here at our school.
My principal gave me the opportunity to turn a closed wood workshop into an art studio. The room became a dumping ground for broken chairs, legless tables and scraps of wood for over 15 years. You can only imagine the mess there was. It literally took 8-9 hours a day for 2 1/2 months this past summer to empty, clean, scrap, scrub, organize and paint this classroom. I enjoyed every minute of it. I was able to get many kids who were hopeful students to volunteer their time to help move things out. They were so excited to know that they were making a difference in our school and giving so many students the opportunity to take art.
We raised money for art tables and chairs, but we do not have many supplies. I was able to solicit 166 students to schedule my classes. I am extremely flattered and pleased with the beginning of this year. The students are excited and still eager to learn. They thoroughly enjoy painting. Our principal is also excited and pleased with their accomplishments. He has given us permission to paint masterpieces on the ceiling tiles in our school. Problem is, the amount of acrylic paint needed is so expensive. My students need 48 half gallons and 3 - 12 pint sets of acrylic paint.
The kids are so excited to "leave their mark" on the school they attended for 4 years. With the amount of art students that are enrolled in my classes, the fees collected do not cover the supplies needed to give each student the opportunity to paint their own tile. This project is a great opportunity for each student. Not only will they be able to apply their skills and talents, but also display their work so their friends and the community can appreciate their hard work.
The sense of pride that I have witnessed with the kids is so overwhelming. My students need many gallons of Acrylic paint to be able to let them express themselves on their own tile. Knowing that I am making a difference in developing their self-esteem for the future is my reward.
Help me continue to give students the opportunity to "leave their mark." Help me make a difference in their lives. Give them the sense of accomplishment and pride. With your help you will let these and many more students know how important this project is and how their artwork will brighten up their school.
More than three‑quarters of 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
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