Media & Materials for Arts & Crafters in Brownsville

Funded Feb 12, 2015

The materials that we received from this project have been truly amazing for the students in the Arts & Crafts club. They have had the chance to explore their creativity in multiple ways. Groups of students sit together, learning from each other such skills as sewing pillows and small creatures, making duct tape flowers on pens, and creating their own graffiti art (on paper) with Sharpies. I put the materials in their hands, teach basic skills, and give them the space to figure out how to make their vision come to life.

Students have said: "Wow! Five pounds of stuffing!" "Do we have any more blue felt? We do? That's cool." "Can you teach me how to make a flower? I want to make one for [the A.P.]" Students are making things for themselves and for others. More students want to transfer into the club so they can have the chance to make these things as well. There is a beautiful momentum here.

This project has boosted students in Arts & Crafts, but it has spilled over into other areas of teaching as well. As their ELA teacher, it is beneficial to learn about my students in a different way. Other teachers have commented on and asked about the projects that the students are so proud to carry around with them.

Thank you so much for your generosity. The funding of this project has truly energized a large, grateful group of students and their two teachers.”

With gratitude,

Ms. O'Neill