About

GRACE Art in the Schools (AIS)* is a parent-run supplemental art program for Ravensworth Elementary School, Springfield, Virginia.  The purpose of GRACE Art is to bring parents into the classroom to enrich the students' learning experience.  You do NOT have to have any art or teaching experience to volunteer.  The only requirement is a desire to have your children see you as a source for learning in the classroom! 

It is easy, fun, and your kids will LOVE seeing you teach in the school (even your 6th Graders!).

Benefits of Your Participation

• Get to see your children in their classroom environment
• Get to know your children's teachers and classmates
  
• Learn new things about art
• Contribute to your child's education
• Make Ravensworth Elementary a better school
• Get to know any teachers/classrooms (via teaching art)
  

How is the Program Run?

What makes this program so unique and worthwhile is that it is run entirely on a volunteer-basis by Ravensworth ES parents.  Volunteers participate in the program by bringing art and art history into the classroom with teachers and students.   All materials and training are organized by the program and GRACE Art Coordinator, Nicki Kelleher (graceart@ravensworthpta.org), and funded by the Ravensworth PTA.

For 2011-2012, we have 4 presentations scheduled:  October, November, February and March.   Volunteers meet the third week of the month prior to each month.  The purpose for this meeting is two-fold: learn about the artist and discuss ways to teach it to the kids at each grade level and review the art or craft project details for the unit.  After the meeting, parents can schedule presentation time(s) with the teacher(s) of their choice (teacher list).

The GRACE Art Program consists of four art portfolios in 2011-2012.   The content and subject matter of each portfolio is firmly tied to the current visual arts curricula in Fairfax County. In addition, the program can be used as a supplement for interdisciplinary teaching. The portfolios focus on a particular artist, style of art, or a theme of art. Each portfolio contains the following:  

• A minimum of six to eight large laminated reproductions
• Three to four comparative teaching boards
• Written biographical information on the artist, subject matter, or theme
  
• Related art and writing activities (appropriate for grades K-6)
• A highlights page regarding the most important aspects of the portfolio
  

It is easy and fun; your kids will LOVE seeing you teach in the school (even your 6th Graders!).


How can I get involved?

The first step is to contact Nicki Kelleher at graceart@ravensworthpta.org

*GRACE Art program is created by Greater Reston Arts Center - Art in Schools (AIS)