East Aurora District 131: Inspiring Learners
"Art does not reproduce what we see; rather, it makes us see." |
Every student faces challenges in the classroom. In East Aurora, we know many of our students overcome significant obstacles to pursue their education. Despite those obstacles, our students arrive in the classroom ready for discovery.
The latest State Report Card data indicates that in the 2013-14 school year, 86 percent of East Aurora School District 131 students were Hispanic, 8 percent were African American, 4 percent were white, 1 percent were Asian, 1 percent were American Indian and 1 percent identified with one or more races. About 90 percent of East Aurora School District 131 students are considered low income. Since the 2013-2014 school year, all students can receive free breakfast at their schools. One third of East Aurora School District 131 students receive English Learner services. Source: http://www.d131.org/aboutus.asp |
Art and Culture
Art is the creative expression of culture and often tells a story. It is a visual record of thoughts, insights, values, questions, dreams, history and/or heritage. Even students at the elementary level can look at a piece of art and ask questions. They can wonder what story the artist may be telling. And through further discussion, students often discover their own connections to the art. This enriches their understanding of cultural differences juxtaposed with how much we are all alike on a human level. Learning about other cultures encourages students to have empathy and respect for others.
Students share their own meaningful stories through their art. After viewing and discussing the presented artwork, students create a project which is inspired by the art or folk art techniques of the introduced culture. For many of the students in our district, we are making connections with their own culture or cultures familiar to them. Our ELL students will often feel comfortable enough to join in the class discussions. The excitement in the room is palpable as students begin to relate their stories to the art. It is our hope that introducing art of Latin America will help our students understand the value of their cultural heritage as they make their way in a new culture. |
"A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people." |