Fifth grade art students are eligible to join the National Elementary Art Honor Society as founding members during its first year.
The NEAHS is designed to recognize and support elementary art students who demonstrate dedication, creativity and leadership in the visual arts. It is modeled after the success of art honor societies that exist at the middle and high school levels across the country. 250 public, private and charter elementary schools applied to be part of the pilot program, and Barstow is one of 60 that were chosen. Members will meet throughout the year and engage in creative leadership and community service opportunities. Applications to join the NEAHS are due on Sept. 22, and student members will have their first meeting on Sept. 30.
Lower school students in Mrs. Polly Blair’s art classes are encouraged to develop and demonstrate dedication, creativity and leadership, leaving them well prepared for this opportunity once they reach fifth grade. During studio work time, they have a choice to work with and learn about different materials and media at dedicated tables. Each table, referred to as a center, is designated for drawing, painting, collage or sculpture. Students not only learn how to use different media to shape their ideas and bring them to life, but also how to take care of the equipment and materials that they are using. They are encouraged to ask a friend if they have a question about where a material goes or how to use it.
Additionally, the lower school art department had a new kiln delivered this week, making future pottery and ceramics projects possible.
Fifth graders who are interested in learning more about NEAHS or applying to join can contact Polly Blair.