The Art Heritage Program was created in the 1980s after an economic downturn in Western Colorado -- the Oil Shale Bust -- necessitated major budget cuts.
Concerned parents, educators and community members met to brainstorm ways to keep art in elementary schools. They discovered the most cost-effective way to do this was to create an art education program delivered by trained volunteers and supported through funding by the school district and community.
The school district hired a part-time program coordinator and developed an effective training model (inspired by a similar program in Oregon) to prepare volunteers for the delivery of classroom art instruction. The Grand Junction Junior Service League provided funding for the initial art supplies, wrote several artist biographies and their members were among the first classroom volunteers.
Over the years, the program grew. Today it includes 250 parent and community volunteers in 22 D51 elementary schools, as well as private schools in the Grand Valley and other classroom locations across the USA.
Art Heritage volunteers provide the program to more than 8200 students each year!
Each month, art units are presented based upon well-known artists and cultural art forms. Students learn about an artist's life and times, view presentations of the artist's work, then create their own art. Lessons include print-making, sculpting, painting, drawing, weaving, copper embossing, and other art skills.
The school district continues to provide the part-time salary for the program coordinators and a budget for art supplies. Donations of money, materials and in-kind services from local businesses and individuals are greatly appreciated.
The Art Heritage Program provides a unique experience students enjoy and remember. Classroom teachers appreciate the unusual and creative experiences provided by dedicated program volunteers. Our volunteers are strong advocates for art education. They are actively involved in fundraising and grant writing to develop support for elementary art education. Parents who volunteer become eager participants in the school's activities.