Arbor Creek Elementary School art teacher Jenna Howe received over $5,000 for two art grants in October 2021 and December 2021 that added new opportunities to her curriculum!  

Howe’s first grant integrates technology to enhance how traditional mediums of art in an elementary class can help students to creatively connect their current and future self. The technology purchased includes a Cricut, 3D pen and a plotter printer. 

“Over the years, technology has allowed artists the ability to create truly new forms of art and has opened the door for artists to apply their skills in many different career fields,” Howe said. “Getting technology in the hands of students while in elementary school is key to helping them find real world connections to these applied skills and allow them the opportunity for uninhibited self-discovery of passions and interests.” 

The second grant helps expand student experiences to include industrial technology option – further solidifying the makerspace that the art classroom can be. Grant money will go toward purchasing an engraver, drills, sander and among other things. 

“Many students are given the impression that ‘art’ will not benefit them in the long run,” she said. “However, it is important to integrate those resources into the arts to show just how compatible and complementary they are to one another. Art supports cross curricular learning through the 4 phases of the creative process: creating, presenting, responding, and connecting.” 

These two grants were funded by the generous donation of the Hidden Glen Visual Arts Fund. Congratulations, Jenna!