I’m thrilled to welcome Sue’s weekly column, beginning Friday of the new school year. Sue is one of my favorite people on earth, and she is one of the best teachers I’ve ever encountered. She’s an educational saint. I often wish I could have taken her class when I was younger. It’s great to see her and her students turn just about anything into art. Welcome back, Sue.
Best wishes for the year. Jon.
_______
News from the Art Room – First Days and Many Thanks
Before I say anything else, I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported the Amazon Wish List this week. I am stunned by people’s kindness sometimes. It’s easy to become hardened when there is so much negativity in the news, but I feel like a community of love and compassion surrounds us. For many years, so many of you have watched these students grow, and their creativity soar. This program wouldn’t exist as it does today without your help. Thank you! Thank you also to those of you who attempted to purchase items from the list that was already empty and emailed messages of support. What a great way to start the year!
_____
Today is the actual first day. It is really awesome to see the kids again. I miss them in the summer. We have lots of new faces this year, too. There were some first-day jitters, as expected, but within a few days, they will settle in and realize that this is truly a welcoming place with great students and staff. For many, it becomes a second family.
I have lots of projects planned, and I am still collecting supplies for others. We’re especially looking for metal bottle caps and clock/watch parts.
______
Kathy and Joe were here yesterday. It’s always great to see them, and of course, they arrived with healthy snacks, a back-to-school-themed box of goodies, and art supplies!
Proctors Theatre of Schenectady has blessed us again this year, and the students’ work is on display. This is the third year they have been so kind and supportive of our program, and we are beyond grateful. If you are in the area, they are located at 432 State St., Schenectady, NY 12305.
_____
We thank Kelly Auricchio for her constant support.
We dove right in today so that photos will be up soon! I knew the kids would be excited for the new supplies and donated items, and they were.
I want to thank the Smithers for dropping off stunning dishes for us to use and Jennifer for bringing so many much-needed art supplies that I deeply appreciate. The time people put in to help us doesn’t go unnoticed by the kids or me! Thank you!
We are always looking for shells, bottle caps, watch/clock parts, beach glass, and anything else you think we can turn into art, which is almost anything!
____
By next week, I will have photos of art in progress for you!
The address is: ND-BG, 2600 Albany Street, Schenectady, New York 12304
I love hearing from you. My email is [email protected].
Have a blessed day!
Sue
ND-BG