I am so excited to have your student in art class!

I mix both teacher-led and student-led projects in art instruction. For grades 2nd-5th, teacher-led projects will be based on a time period in art history with a design principle/element and technique tied to it. Kindergarten and 1st grade students will focus solely on design principles/elements and basic techniques.

The art projects will alternate throughout the year between being teacher-led and student-led. I will introduce and teach a project in the aforementioned styles, but once it is completed students will complete an additional project they choose or invent themselves using the design principle/element they just learned about. You may hear students refer to those student-led days as TAB Lab. TAB refers to “teaching for artistic behavior” and encourages student preference while the teacher helps with technique, brainstorming, etc.

All of this work will be saved in the art room and sent home twice per year. A semester 1 portfolio envelope will go home the week before winter break. The semester 2 portfolio envelope will go home the week before summer break. Portfolios are important for visualizing progress and I can’t wait for you all to see them!

I look forward to seeing your student’s creativity blossom!

With sincere gratitude for your support,

Emily ("Ms. K")