FAQs

How often is a parent expected to volunteer in the classroom?

Teachers welcome Art Smart presentations as often as 1-2 times per month.  You can volunteer for this program throughout the entire year.

Can classrooms have more than one parent volunteer?

Absolutely!  Classrooms can have up to 2 Artsmart presentations per month. When parents register, the Artsmart volunteer will alert the teacher so they  know they will be hearing from the parent. Volunteers should coordinate their visits with the classroom teacher.

I would like to volunteer for Art Smart, but I don't know anything about art.  Can I do this?

Yes!  Most of our volunteers have no prior art knowledge.  Remember, you are speaking with young children who may be seeing this art for the first time.  The purpose of Art Smart is to introduce children to art and encourage them to observe, think critically, and appreciate what they see. If you are enjoying yourself, the kids will too!

I would really like to volunteer for Art Smart, but I am not a strong public speaker and am nervous to speak to a classroom of students.

Many people are uncomfortable with public speaking.  While volunteers speak to a group, it is in a very relaxed atmosphere.  Often Art Smart presenters sit in a chair with the students gathered around them.  While the volunteer will share information about the artist, he or she will also pose questions for the kids to think about.  The students will be sharing their observations and talking  as much or more than the parent volunteer.  Orchard Hills students are curious and attentive, and the classroom teacher is always present to help with classroom management.  

I would like to volunteer for Art Smart in my child's classroom.  How do I do this?

Please sign up on this site for an available month in your child's classroom.  In addition, the chairperson is always happy to answer any questions a parent might have about Art Smart.  Email us at ohartsmart@gmail.com.  Thank you!