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An art appreciation program that brings a museum-like experience to the classroom has wrapped up a series of visits to all four of Methacton’s elementary schools. For nearly 50 years, Art Goes to School of Delaware Valley has introduced Methacton students to the world of fine art, allowing them to get up close with pieces and teaching them to observe closely, listen thoughtfully, and connect emotionally with what they see. 

The program is powered by volunteers dedicating their time to help young students develop an appreciation for art. The volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds—including medicine, business, science, and academia—with many being retired teachers.

Each year, an Art Goes to School committee curates a portfolio of artwork reproductions to bring into the classrooms. Each portfolio includes 19 prints and a sculpture that span history, cultures, styles and regions. These diverse works are designed to broaden students’ understanding of art and enrich classroom discussions. 

During each visit, an Art Goes to School volunteer presents each piece and leads the class in thoughtful conversations, exploring symbolism, observation, and the emotions tied to the piece. These conversations are designed to support students’ visual acuity, investigative and communication skills. 

This year’s Art Goes to School portfolio ranged from cave paintings to more modern, abstract pieces. Eagleville, Arrowhead, Woodland and Worcester students even had an opportunity to touch and feel a variety of small sculptures to investigate their shapes and features. 

“I believe that art touches minds and hearts,” says Art Goes to School of Delaware Valley’s immediate Past-President, Jeana Mastrangeli. “When we teach and engage our students, we open cultural doors that grow minds and enrich lives.” 

Art Goes to School visits more than 30 school districts in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, reaching over 165,000 children each year. For more information and to learn how you can be a volunteer, visit artgoestoschool.org.

 

The image shows a woman in a classroom setting, standing in front of a whiteboard and interacting with a student who is seated at a desk. The background includes various artworks and posters displayed on the walls, suggesting an art-focused educational environment.
A classroom setting with a group of students gathered around a teacher, who appears to be presenting or discussing various artworks and displays on the walls.
Two young children, a boy and a girl, are standing together in what appears to be a clothing or costume store. The boy is wearing a blue and white patterned jacket, while the girl is wearing a yellow sweater. They both have expressions of excitement or curiosity on their faces.
The image shows two young children, a boy and a girl, standing in a classroom setting and examining something on the wall with an adult, likely a teacher or caregiver, standing nearby.
A group of young children, both boys and girls, are gathered together and appear to be engaged in a shared activity or interaction.
A group of young children, some wearing colorful shirts, are gathered around a wooden toy, appearing engaged and excited.
A group of students are gathered in an art classroom, listening to a teacher or instructor standing in front of them, surrounded by various artworks and displays on the walls.