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Welcome to the Department of Art Education in Rush-Henrietta! We invite you to browse this portion of the district website to learn more about our outstanding art program.
Art education is a forum where students develop their potential - aesthetically, intellectually and creatively. Art is a record of humankind's achievements, a reflection of a society's values, beliefs, attitudes and concerns. Students grow in their ability to participate in their world when they begin to see connections between the visual arts, other art forms, and aspects of life and learning. Art education is indispensable to the freedom of inquiry and expression. The arts provide forms of nonverbal communication that can strengthen the presentation of ideas. The modes of thinking and methods of the arts can be used to illuminate situations in other disciplines that require creative solutions. All students, regardless of their background, talents, or abilities, deserve access to a rich, comprehensive arts education program that develops the self-esteem, self-discipline, cooperation and self-motivation necessary for success in life. Art is an important part of the common culture because it provides us with examples of the breadth, depth, and complexity of human nature.
We are very proud of our fine arts programs and the accomplishments of our art students! We hope you will take advantage of the many opportunities to share in, and to celebrate our fantastic art program by attending one of the art shows. The links on the left will provide you with more information about events and features of the district art program.
All students in grades K-7 receive instruction in the visual arts that allows them to meet the NYS Learning Standards for the Arts in Visual Art. Students continue to have the opportunity to pursue their interest and develop skills as they take art courses in grades 8-12. Rush-Henrietta students consistently earn awards in the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition and other area competitions, such as the Digies. Rush-Henrietta art students also have their work displayed in local and regional art shows, such as the RIT Regional Art show at the Bevier Gallery and the NYSATA Region Two Art Show.
Additionally, student artwork is highlighted in art shows throughout the school year in buildings, within the district, and in the community.
One great example is the 22-23 SHS Agenda cover art, by Vicki Li.
Another is the 22-23 RH District Calendar cover art, by Kathryn Arbegast.
And yet one more example is the Roth JHS Agenda Cover Art by Dibyansi Panda.
Congratulations, artists!
Access the links below to websites for preschool through secondary students and for links to art museums. To learn more about the art programs offered, contact the Director of Art, Donna Watts, by calling (585) 359-5058 or e-mailing dwatts@rhnet.org. Get a good start - a smart start with art!
