Each March, schools across the nation prepare to showcase their creativity in the classroom. Otherwise known as Youth Art Month, this month is highlighted as an annual observance to emphasize the value of art education for all children and to encourage support for quality school art programs.
Started in 1961 by the ACMI (Art and Craft Materials Institute) in cooperation with the NAEA, the program is administered by the Council for Art Education (CAE) and focuses on the following eight goals:
1. To direct attention to the value of art education which develops divergent and critical thinking skills; multicultural awareness; and technical, communication, and expressive skills.
2. To increase community, business, and governmental support for art education.
3. To recognize that art is a necessity for the full development of better quality of life for all people.
4. To expand art programs in schools and stimulate new ones.
5. To increase community understanding and interest in art and art education through involvement in art exhibits, workshops, and other creative ventures.
6. To provide additional opportunities for individuals of all ages to participate in creative art learning.
7. To encourage commitment to the arts by students, community organizations, and individuals everywhere.
8. To recognize art education as a viable component in the total education curricula that develops citizens of a global society.
Youth Art Month – What’s coming next?
March 16: Night of the Arts (6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.)
Description: Elementary student art display (Pre-K through Grade 4) on the elementary campus. Art stations are to be overseen by FFCS student volunteers, and the event will be complete with a Stewart’s Shops ice cream station. Performance groups will also highlight the entertainment.
Drawing Challenge (March 1-31)
Description: A fun-filled opportunity for students to be creative with a chance to win prizes! Students will complete daily drawing tasks on a calendar provided by their classroom teachers. Students will then return their collection at the end of the month. A special thank you to the PTSA for supplying this year’s prizes.
Community Art Displays (K through fifth grade)
Description: There will be student art displays at various community centers and businesses to showcase our students’ creativity over the course of the month. Student artwork can be found at the following locations: Haven of Hope Bakery, Fonda Reformed Church, St. Cecelia, the Frothingham Free Library, and Fieldridge Farms. If you get a chance, check out the great work being accomplished by our young artists.
Art Spirit Week
This year’s Art Spirit Week will run from Monday, March 13 through Friday, March 17. Stay tuned for some fun and exciting moments shared on the district’s Facebook page.
Community Window Displays
In addition to our YAM events, we’ve invited our community members to decorate their windows or storefronts to support Youth Art Month and Music In Our Schools month this year. Look for their displays March 11 – March 26.