Starting this September, the Artsploration program will be a key part of our education for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond. This program is for students from Kindergarten to Grade Six, aiming to expose them to various arts throughout their school years.
The funds we have will allow local, professional artists to lead weekly sessions with our students for 4-8 weeks. This gives our children valuable chances to explore and grow their artistic skills. We plan to host 3-4 sessions each year, each focusing on a different art form. We will also include indigenous art, with at least one session each year led by a local indigenous artist.
Some art sessions will take place outdoors as part of our Forest School program. These outdoor sessions let students connect with nature while learning art. We also plan to add art installations in our Forest School areas, adding creative student expressions to the natural setting.
We know the arts play a crucial role in children’s mental well-being and self-expression. We are excited to launch the Artsploration program this September. This program will empower our students and enrich their education through artistic exploration.
What is it?
Artsploration is a new program that introduces our students to many different arts at Keewatin Public School. By hosting month-long sessions with various local artists each year, students can deeply explore and enjoy each art form.
When does it happen?
Starting in the 2024-25 school year, students at Keewatin Public will join in 3-4 Artsploration sessions each year. Each session will last 4-8 weeks, with each class taking part in one lesson per week.
What arts will be covered?
While we are still planning for the next school year, we have artists ready to teach sessions in pottery, guitar/ukulele, dance, indigenous fine art, and watercolour painting.
How will this fit into the existing curriculum?
Artsploration will be seamlessly integrated into our existing curriculum, ensuring that core subjects and other activities are not disrupted. Each class will have one dedicated lesson per week during the sessions.
Who are the artists leading the sessions?
We are proud to collaborate with professional artists who are not only skilled in their crafts but also experienced in working with children. Detailed biographies and credentials of each artist will be shared with parents ahead of the sessions.
What specific skills and benefits will my child gain from this program?
The program aims to enhance creativity, improve fine motor skills, and boost self-confidence. Students will also develop a greater appreciation for different cultures and artistic expressions.
How will the program accommodate different interests and skill levels?
While all students will participate in each session, we ensure activities are designed to cater to various interests and skill levels. Our artists will adapt their lessons as-needed to engage all students.
How will the program address the diverse needs of all students, including those with special needs?
We are committed to making Artsploration accessible to all students. Additional support will be available for students with special needs to ensure they can fully participate and enjoy the program.
What is the cost of the program to parents?
There are no additional costs to parents for their children to participate in Artsploration. Thanks to the fundraising efforts by our School Council, this program is fully funded, ensuring it is free and accessible to all students. Keewatin Public School extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Arts Council of Ontario for their generous funding, which enables us to launch this innovative program. The $13,000 in funding will be instrumental in bringing this program to fruition.