| The Art Heritage Program was created in the 1980's after an economic downturn in Western Colorado -- the Oil Shale Bust -- necessitated major budget cuts. Concerned parents, educators and community members met to brainstorm ways to keep art in elementary schools. They discovered the most cost-effective way to do this was to create an art education program delivered by trained volunteers and supported through funding by the school district and community. The school district hired a part-time program coordinator and developed an effective training model (inspired somewhat by a similar program in Oregon) to prepare volunteers for the delivery of classroom art instruction. The Grand Junction Junior Service League provided funding for the initial art supplies, wrote several artist biographies and their members were among the first classroom volunteers. Over the years, the program has grown. Today it includes 260 parent and community volunteers in 24 elementary schools educating over 7400 students each year! Each month, art units are presented based upon well-known artists and cultural art forms. Students learn about an artist's life and times, view power point presentations of the artist's work, then create their own art. Students learn print-making, sculpting, painting, drawing, weaving, copper embossing, and other art skills. The school district continues to provide staffing of the program coordinators and a budget for art supplies. Donations of money, materials and in-kind services from local businesses and individuals are essential supports. While not pretending to take the place of a certified elementary art teacher, the Art Heritage Program provides a unique experience that students will remember and retain. Classroom teachers appreciate the unusual and creative experiences provided by dedicated program volunteers. Art Heritage volunteers are strong advocates for art education. They are actively involved in fund raising and grant writing to develop support for elementary art education. |
| The Art Heritage Program story Grand Junction, Colorado Mesa County Valley School District 51 |
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