VISUAL ARTS

At a time when Americans are increasingly concerned with finding jobs and economic stability, supporting families, and surviving in the global economy, many consider the arts to be a luxury, a frivolous distraction that entices students away from real learning.

The arts illuminate "life in all its mystery, misery, delight, pity and wonder." Without them, students are deprived of learning what it means to be truly human. The arts teach students how rather than what to think.

The arts teach skills that other basic subjects cannot--critical thinking and problem solving, judgment and independence, attention to detail and craftsmanship, and openness to other cultures and ways of thinking. The arts enliven and extend the entire school curriculum by integrating different subjects in innovative interdisciplinary ways, sparking the interest all students but particularly at-risk or special needs students.

Weekly art classes for kindergarten through fifth graders include experiences in drawing and

painting, basic art techniques, imagery and guided art and 3-dimensional art. Various arts

activities art incorporated into the regular classroom curriculum as well.

Drama is incorporated for all grade levels through our fine arts program. Each class presents a performance during the year and all students participate annually in “Nine Lessons and Carols” just before Christmas.  St. Mary’s early childhood divisions implement a fine arts program through a developmentally appropriate approach of the Great Masters in art and music.

Teachers weave in drama and fine arts throughout the year with field trips to area productions such as “Oklahoma”, “Junie B” and “Cat in the Hat” and presentation opportunities during subject unit studies. After school programs allow children to increase their drama and performance experiences. Performing gives children a sense of pride and reduces the anxiety of speaking in front of a group.

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