The state of Washington recognizes that the arts are an integral part of every student’s educational experience. K-12 Learning Standards for the Visual Arts provide a framework for effective K-12 arts education by setting out a coherent structure for building students’ knowledge, understanding, and skills, while also encouraging them to explore and express their own creativity. The standards are arranged under four artistic processes: creating, performing/presenting/producing, responding and connecting.

Greenwood Elementary’s art teacher, Kenley Jones, believes that the arts are essential in supporting a well-rounded education for our students. The arts teach to the whole child, engage all learning styles, and lead to the development of powerful learning habits that include such essential 21st-century skills as creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. The arts also provide our students with keys to understanding the world around them and an array of strategies for learning, interpreting, and expressing their thoughts.

The visual arts program at Greenwood will include both individual and group projects that provide opportunities to explore a multiplicity of viewpoints and cultures, explore art genres and artists. Assessments will be ongoing, with grades based on a scale of 1-4 and that reflect level of skill or technique, participation, creative process, and communication/reflection. The art room promotes a positive and supportive learning environment.

Sharing what is done in the art room is an integral part of the art program. Feel free to come by the art room to visit, volunteer, or to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. You can also learn about what is happening through the art newsletter, through information sent home along with projects, and checking out the students’ artwork displayed in the hallways.