Staunton Grade School returns art to curriculum

For the first time in 11 years, Staunton Elementary will offer an art class to all elementary students. Students will participate in art weekly as one of their "special area" classes which currently include physical education, music, and library.

The return of art is due to the diligent efforts of the board of education, administration, staff, and students of the Staunton CUSD #6 School District.

Second grade teacher Ava McNally stated, "People who do art get higher grades and are focused on math and reading." She also agreed with bringing art back in order to help students express their feelings.

At the May 22 Board of Education meeting, the school board approved the hire of Alexis Tharp for the position of elementary/junior high art teacher. Tharp is a veteran visual arts teacher with 19-plus years of experience in the K-12 classroom. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1996. Tharp has spent her career enhancing the creative abilities of students of all ages in drawing, painting, and ceramics. She is looking forward to sharing her passion for art with the students of Staunton CUSD #6.