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Hello,
We are so excited to kick off the 2026–2027 school year and to welcome each of you—returning and new—into another year of creativity across the Valley. Your time, care, and commitment make it possible for students to experience meaningful connections to artists, cultures, and creative expression.
This year, instead of hosting an in-person Orientation meeting, we are asking all volunteers to review the updated Orientation information on the Art Heritage website, carefully read the on-site binder at your school, and plan to attend our first artist training. These resources will walk you through important updates, including our new training schedule, program protocols, and expectations to help ensure a smooth and successful year.
Our first artist training will also be a time to connect, ask questions, and dive into the excitement of the first lesson together. Lora and Liz are looking forward to collaborating with you and supporting you every step of the way.
Thank you for being such an essential part of Art Heritage. Here’s to a year filled with creativity, connection, and color!
Lora
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to Get Started?
Join us for a training session, explore the online resources, and get ready to bring creativity, color, and inspiration into the classroom.
We're so glad you're here!
In-Person Training
In-Person Training
Held 6 times per year (once per lesson)
Fridays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Drop in anytime. It is an open house style. Stay as long as you need.
Location: New Emerson Art Room
During in-person training, you will
Create the project yourself
Learn teaching tips and classroom strategies
Ask questions and connect with other volunteers
Pick up your materials for the upcoming lesson
This open-house format allows you to learn at your own pace in a supportive environment.
Online Training
Online Training
If you are unable to attend in person, online training is available.
Online training typically includes:
A video introducing the artist and classroom discussion
A step-by-step project demonstration
Additional resources, such as biographies and teaching tips
This option allows you to prepare on your own time while still feeling confident leading your lesson.
Blue Group Artist Training
Yellow Group Artist
What You’ll Learn
What You’ll Learn
Each training session focuses on a specific artist and project. Across the year, volunteers explore lessons such as:
Watercolor painting inspired by the Wyeth family
Mixed media portraits in the style of Picasso
Fabric collage storytelling with Faith Ringgold
Figure drawing and sculpture with Giacometti
Printmaking inspired by Hokusai
Ceiling-style drawing inspired by Michelangelo
Each lesson builds your confidence in:
Teaching artistic techniques
Facilitating student discussion
Encouraging creativity and exploration
Our Approach to Teaching
Our Approach to Teaching
Art Heritage is about more than making projects—it’s about building thinkers and creators.
Volunteers are encouraged to:
Foster curiosity and conversation
Encourage multiple perspectives (no “right answers”)
Support creative risk-taking
Help students make personal connections to art
Through this approach, students develop creativity, confidence, and critical thinking skills that extend beyond the art room.
A Community of Creativity
A Community of Creativity
Training is also a chance to:
Connect with other volunteers
Share ideas and strategies
Build a supportive art community across schools
Together, we create meaningful art experiences for students across District 51.
Materials & Support
Materials & Support
All lesson materials are provided by the district
Supplies are distributed at each training
Each box includes enough materials for your school’s students
Additional supplies are available if needed
You are not on your own—support is always available from:
Your school’s Art Heritage coordinator
District coordinators (Lora &)
Fellow volunteers at training sessions
Art Comes Alive in Our Schools!
We’re so grateful for our amazing team of dedicated volunteers. Because of you, D51 elementary students get to experience fun, hands-on art lessons that spark creativity and learning.
THANK YOU
for sharing your time, energy, and heart with our school community!
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