Throughout the school year and several weeks during the summer break, Marion School District 2 has played host to students wanting to broaden their horizons and enhance their artistic experiences.
This past Tuesday morning, over 75 audience members seated outside on the campus of the Palmetto Education Center were treated to a summer art show that brought home images of the “Far East.”
Taking on a Japanese cultural theme, 68 students participating in the six-week summer arts program and provided a culminating performance that featured various art forms.
Students showed off their skills in visual arts, violin, percussion, creative writing, martial arts, and dance. Director of Fine Arts Marissa Monroe said a lot of work not only went into rehearsals, but also in the decorations, which included lamps, origami and wardrobe. Martial arts students rushed to take the floor dressed as stealthy ninjas.
After the presentation, a tea studio welcomed parents and provided an opportunity for students to show off first hand what they’d learned. Dressed in a komodo, similar to several students, Monroe said the program was organized thanks to a $130,000 21st Century Grant.
Monroe reported more good news during her remarks at the event. “I’m happy to announce that we were just approved for another federal grant in the amount of $200,000 to continue our program.
“The reason why I loved this class is because this has been a great experience for me,” Tomaroa Williams said, adding that she loved writing several essays, learning about Japan and music related to the program.
Marion School District 2 Superintendent Nathaniel Miller thanked the teaching staff and students for the dedication and organization learning about a different culture. “We’re so proud of the work they have done,’ he said, adding that next year the district will host another after school arts program.
“They did a wonderful job and they just amazed me during the course of the summer,” Monroe said.
“This was one of our best programs and we’re just thankful for the grant that allowed it,” Miller said, adding that the cultural enrichment experience was the quickest way to teach students and sharpen their skills when it comes to gaining an understanding of the world around them.
“I like how we learned about the Japanese culture and how to make cranes and all of the decorations displayed in the hallway. We learned words and how to count,” Kiyahn Leach said, adding that he had fun participating.
audience members seated outside on the campus of the Palmetto Education Center were treated to a summer art show that brought home images of the “Far East.”
Students showed off their skills in visual arts, violin, percussion, creative writing, martial arts and dance.
Martial Arts students dressed as ninjas show off their combat skills after taking part in a six-week summer arts program at the Palmetto Education Center.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement