For me, nothing is more beautiful than seeing kids make beautiful art for the first time. Sue is a master art teacher. Thanks so much for supporting her work and contributing to our annual Wish List for her art class. She knows what to do with it. Here’s to another great year in Sue’s classroom. Jon.
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News from the Art Room – Finding a Rhythm
It takes the first few weeks of a new year to settle in and find a rhythm. Classes have individual personalities, and what was a super cool, exciting project for last year’s section is a big, fat, unimpressive flop this year, and vice versa. Last year, I had a lot of painters. This year, I have a lot of builders who like to “make stuff”. 
My team of Janaya and Kailey, seniors now (small tear rolling down my cheek), are back at it, painting a great screen that was donated over the summer. I am really excited to watch this happen. They have tremendous talent and produce all the time. Their Monet-themed chair is currently on display at the theater, and I have received so much positive feedback.
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I tasked the 3D Design kids to repurpose one of many objects I gave them to choose from. A go-big-or-go-home kind of project to kick off the year. They are 11th and 12th grade, so most have been in my classes for several years now, and we know each other. When objects come in as donations, I often know instantly who will snap them up and be excited! One group has finally chosen a lovely old birdcage with a stand. I enjoy listening as they design and plan their next moves!
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It has been around for a bit, and I am happy it’s been adopted now. These things were all special to someone at one time, and it’s like animals at the shelter in a way, waiting to be chosen for a new life out of the dusty back room.
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Yesterday, I did a quick sunflower-painting lesson with Studio Art. It’s a step-by-step process I found online to teach color mixing and layering. The results are typically nice, and the kids are happy with them, which makes them interested in painting more, which is the real goal.
One of my 10th-grade boys is taking all the watches apart for me! It is tedious work, and I appreciate him. I also appreciate Andrea from MA for sending us the tools! We are still looking for watches and clocks if you have any around that need a new home.
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Most of the Wish List items have arrived, and I thank everyone again for their support.
The first Kathy box of the year was a squirrel-themed joy! The kids loved everything inside! Pajamas, cookies, art supplies, and so much more! Thank you, Kathy!
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Thank you to Jeanne from VA for the vintage jewelry, watches, and art supplies!
I am still looking for metal bottle caps! We are going to paint them, so beer bottle caps are great! Or soda, of course!
Proctors Theatre of Schenectady has blessed us again this year, and the students’ work is on display.
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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.
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Thank you, Kelly Auricchio, for your constant support.
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!
Su
The screen is beautiful!