ART KIDS

ART Kids Program Thrives at Prince Edward Elementary

On Mondays this past year at Prince Edward County Elementary School, about a dozen fourth graders missed recess – and they couldn’t be happier about it.  “ART Kids is better than recess!” exclaimed one participant.   Organized by the LCVA and PECES, the ART Kids program uses photography to teach self-expression, enhance communication skills, and build confidence.

The 2008-09 program was taught by LCVA exhibitions manager Alex Grabiec, himself a photographer who graduated from Longwood’s Art Department in 2007.  Grabiec was assisted by Bishop-Wells Intern Todd Stonnell, along with a host of LU student volunteers.  “Part of what we do is to break into small groups to discuss new concepts, to take new photographs, or to evaluate our projects.  Having capable volunteers to give more individual attention has been incredibly helpful,” noted Grabiec.

He also appreciates the leadership of PECES teacher Natalie Reeves, who guided the program at the elementary school.  “Her administrative skills were great,” Grabiec said, “but even more, we appreciated the way she jumped right in to help with our activities and the ways she communicated the importance of the program.  She is a real advocate of the kids and the program.”  Principal Barbara Brown and district Superintendent Patricia Watkins were also supportive.

The program targets fourth-grade students who have been identified as “at risk” by the school’s teachers and administrators.  “Frankly, I don’t see these kids as any different than other kids, or the way I remember being a kid,” noted Grabiec.  “But it is a nice opportunity to work in a positive way with kids who may have had problems.  And it’s gratifying to see so many positive changes – watching a very shy girl open up, seeing improvements in the kids’ photography, hearing the kids move from a more insulting way of talking about one another to a more constructive form of art criticism.”

The program culminated in an exhibition of the students’ photography this spring, which ran from May 12 through 25.  Then the works were exhibited in the LCVA’s Main Street Gallery.   Grabiec mounted and framed each student’s best work, which was shown at the elementary school.  “I’m looking forward to the exhibition,” noted Grabiec before the show.  “I think that in addition to displaying some nice photographs, we’ll also be highlighting the personal growth that these students have made.”