Welcome Back !

Welcome Back Students & Parents

Dear Families,

Welcome back to school! I hope everyone had a wonderful summer vacation and is eager to embark on a productive school year. I am optimistic about a year filled with creativity, exploration, and engaging art experiences.

This year, we are planning a variety of exciting activities and projects within the Visual Arts Program. Students will have the opportunity to refine their fundamental skills using a diverse range of two- and three-dimensional materials and techniques. Additionally, Fine Art students in grades 6, 7, and 8 will have the option to select visual art courses as an area of concentration for their electives, attending art class twice a week. Typically, the Thursday preceding the spring break will be dedicated to our Visual Arts showcase.

Please visit the classroom webpage at www.jponcentre.com to view photographs of past projects and this year’s new projects and activities. Furthermore, be on the lookout for the Art Room News letters that I will distribute before the holidays.

Below, I have provided some general information regarding the Visual Art Program. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or if you are interested in volunteering as a parent at cwall@bostonpublicschools.org.

Materials:

Students are expected to bring a sharpened pencil and an eraser to each class. They may also bring their own crayons, colored pencils, and markers; however, art materials necessary for completing each classroom assignment will be provided. Please bring any donations to school with your child. Some of the items we could use include paper towels, 5-10 pencils, a 2-inch eraser, and a container of antibacterial or other hand wipes. If possible, please donate any of the above items for the classroom. We also repurpose the rolls from paper towels and tissue for upcycled projects. Students earn class points for bringing them in.

Art Classroom Rules and Safety

For the safety of students and to foster a positive learning environment, the following five rules are expected to be followed throughout the year:

1. Listen to directions: Pay attention to instructions given by the instructor.

2. Stay in your seat: Remain seated during class activities.

3. Use art materials with care: Handle art supplies responsibly and avoid damaging them.

4. Respect each other and each other’s art: Treat classmates and their creations with respect.

5. Keep hands, feet, and all objects to yourself: Maintain a safe distance from others and avoid placing objects on the floor.

The safe use of materials and tools is of utmost importance. Before using any materials, we will discuss the most appropriate and safe methods. Please emphasize the significance of adhering to these rules and using materials responsibly to your children.

Grading/ Rubric

Students’ grades are determined by the following five factors:

1. Effort in class: Demonstrated commitment and participation.

2. Following directions: Adherence to instructions and guidelines.

3. Completion of work: Submission of completed assignments and projects.

4. Quality of artwork: The overall quality and creativity of students’ creations.

5. Timely completion of assignments: Submission of work on time.

Each of these factors contributes 20% to the student’s final grade for the quarter.

Best wishes for a successful school year,

Ms. Drakes (Visual Arts Teacher)