More Impact in an Elementary Art Room
with Ms. DJ
See how Studio Sprout transformed her elementary art classroom at Highland Renaissance Academy.
Tell me about your teaching environment at Highland Renaissance Academy.
I teach in a public school comprised of Pre-K through 5th grade classrooms specifically created for students with disabilities. I’ve been teaching for over 20 years, with experience both inside and outside the public school system.
The hardest part of teaching and planning art was organizing lesson plans in a concise manner that was easy for me and my students to follow. I struggled with expectations and materials and spent over 2 hours each week planning art lessons.
How do you use Studio Sprout in the classroom?
I use both the video and PDF. Because I can play the video directly for the class, I am able to walk around to support students who need more one-on-one time with me. I also learn from the video and reteach.
What has improved the most since you started using Studio Sprout?
Instead of using my planning time to search for the right lesson, and wonder if it’s going to work, Studio Sprout allows me to really focus on the lesson and tailor it to my students.
Individual creativity is a quality I have tried to cultivate since transferring to my current school. Studio Sprout lessons emphasize student choice within a manageable structure. This has produced unique art and inspired more questions and conversations. Students are more engaged and thinking critically about their art.
What do your students think of Studio Sprout projects?
Studio Sprout projects are some of their favorites, and I get really amazing results.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Studio Sprout is the kind of resource that makes your job as an art teacher fun, successful, and rewarding. It’s a great investment for your art teachers’ overall success. I think this resource would be a huge blessing to brand new art teachers.