Welcome to our art class! Here, we do more than just make cool art—we work together to build a strong, supportive community. Our class is based on a philosophy called the Circle of Courage, which is all about four important values: Belonging, Mastery, Independence, and Generosity.

These values guide how we treat each other, how we learn new skills, and how we express ourselves. When you follow them, you're not just becoming a better artist—you’re also becoming a more confident, kind, and strong person.

1. Belonging – Building a Safe and Inclusive Art Studio

In our classroom, everyone is welcomed as part of a creative community. We honor our diverse backgrounds, languages, and artistic voices. Belonging means:

• Respecting each other—students, teachers, and guests—at all times.

• Using kind, supportive language and showing appreciation for others’ ideas and cultures.

• Helping maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment for all students to express themselves.

• Encouraging collaboration and positive peer feedback.

Behavioral Expectations:

• No put-downs, teasing, or exclusion.

• Be open-minded and celebrate difference.

• Follow MDHS policies around phone use (Yondr pouches required) to stay present with each other.

2. Mastery – Developing Artistic Skill and Understanding

This program is designed to support your growth as a developing artist through practice, challenge, and reflection. Mastery means:

• Engaging fully in each project, warm-up, and demo.

• Developing your skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, design, and digital media.

• Studying cultural and historical artists to expand your perspective.

• Reflecting on your progress and setting artistic goals.

Curriculum Includes:

• Custom art projects tied to personal and cultural identity

• Weekly technique demonstrations and hands-on practice

• Visual art vocabulary, artist studies, and critique discussions

• Readings and references from: The Artist’s Compass workbook, artist handouts, and digital tutorials

Assessment & Grading:

• Sketchbook Assignments 40%

• Major Art Projects  40%

• Participation, Time and Data Management 10%

• Final Exam/Project 10%

3. Independence – Taking Ownership of Your Creative Journey

Art allows students to develop voice and autonomy. Independence means:

• Taking initiative with your ideas and projects.

• Being responsible with materials, time, and deadlines.

• Using feedback to improve and revise your work.

Late Work Policy:

• Major projects may be turned in up to 5 days late for up to 70% credit, unless excused. 

• Daily assignments must be made up within 1 week of an excused absence.

• Extensions available with teacher approval or for students with IEPs/504s.

Retakes & Corrections Policy:

• One revision opportunity is available for major assignments per quarter.

• Must include a reflection and consultation with the teacher.

Procedures:

• Warm-ups begin in the first 5 minutes of class.

• Restroom use allowed with pass (one student at a time, not in the first/last 10 minutes of the period).

• Google Classroom will be used for assignments, resources, and feedback.

4. Generosity – Sharing Art and Ideas to Uplift Others

Art has the power to connect, uplift, and heal. Generosity means:

• Helping your peers catch up on missed lessons or offering support when they need a hand.

• Contributing to the studio environment through support, encouragement, and collaboration.

• Sharing your creative work with confidence and humility.

• Participating in class critiques, gallery displays, and possibly school-wide events.

• Giving honest, helpful feedback to classmates.

Resources if You Need Help:

• One-on-one check-ins with your teacher before or after class

• Peer mentoring during studio time

• Digital resources provided via Google Classroom