It was not long ago that arts education in schools was thought to be a luxury, and arts classes were cut from the curriculum to make room for more time to prepare for standardized tests. Currently, there is more and more information available that shows how crucial arts integration is to creating well-rounded, well-prepared learners and leaders.

Shelley Peeters, art teacher at Fraser Elementary, said, “Art really helps children with their development of motor skills, language skills, social skills, decision-making, risk-taking, and inventiveness”. Peeters added, “Working in the arts helps students develop creative problem-solving skills in a safe environment.”

Each year, K-12 students from East Grand School District hold an annual Art Show to highlight a collection of student projects from Fraser Valley Elementary, Granby Elementary, East Grand Middle School and Middle Park High. Teachers from each school select 30-40 pieces in a variety of 2D and 3D work. Water colors, oils, pastels, photos, graphic design, pottery and paper mache projects will be featured this year at the Granby Library from April 22nd through May 22nd, and, the public is invited to come see the work of our creative students.

Peeters said, “The show is really a great way for our students that excel in the arts to get their work out there”.  Arts experiences boost critical thinking, teaching students to take the time to be more careful and thorough in how they observe the world. Peeters added, “We are all proud of our students and the time they have put into the show art”.

This year the show opens on Earth Day and Peeters said, theme of the show is ‘The Earth without Art is just Eh’. At East Grand Schools, art is very much alive and well. Stop by the Granby Library in the next month, view the exhibit and show your appreciation.