Elementary schools that don’t have their own art teachers are still able to have hands-on art classes thanks to 42 dedicated volunteer teachers who participate in Pend Oreille Arts Council’s Kaleidoscope program. These selfless instructors were recently feted by POAC staff and board members for their exemplary work.
This school year, Kaleidoscope provided high quality art experiences to over 1,000 children at seven Lake Pend Oreille School District elementary schools and at Idaho Hill in the West Bonner County School District. The curriculum is geared to grades three through six.
“We are so grateful for our volunteers who give their time, energy and passion for working with kids,” Janelle Campasino, Kaleidoscope coordinator said. “Our volunteers are extremely committed. They teach month after month all year long. Kaleidoscope would not exist without them.”
Campasino said that lessons are designed on a year-to-year continuum to teach the elements of arts such as line, color and shape. “Some schools do have an art specialist, and the work of Kaleidoscope enhances that instruction too. Children are being prepared for advanced critical thinking coursework in high school and beyond.”
At the event, volunteers shared their thoughts about Kaleidoscope. May Kaun, who volunteers at Washington School’s fifth grade class said, “I wish we had even more lessons with the kids. Most get no other art experiences than Kaleidoscope.”
Kim Atkinson, third grade volunteer at Sagle stated, “I love this program! It is so fun going into the classroom and working with the kids. I love that the kids get to keep their art journals throughout the years.”
“I love the success I see in kids,” said sixth grade volunteer artist Molly Gentry, “I saw a student really break the mold and be really creative. It happened often and it was awesome!”
Shantelle Gillis, third grade teacher at Northside is an example of how supportive the schools are of the program. She said, “Kaleidoscope art was an absolute highlight of our year! It was inspiring, joyful and deeply enriching. Every session felt like a gift — an opportunity to explore creativity in such a thoughtful and nurturing environment. The way the program balances art education with self-expression is truly special. We couldn’t be more grateful.”
Campasino said that Gillis is a prime example of how all local teachers see the benefit of Kaleidoscope. “They see it as more than just art. It’s another opportunity within the classroom to build community. Kids are practicing problem solving and are gaining self-confidence.”
She added, “Volunteers are crucial to the success of Kaleidoscope. Many of the volunteers have been teaching the lessons for years. Others are completely new to the program. Volunteers are often parents or grandparents. Many of our local artists volunteer although an art background is not necessary. Some volunteers have teaching experience. Others do not. Every volunteer has been extremely important to the program this year. They all deserve a heartfelt thank you.”
Pend Oreille Arts Council provides cultural experiences in visual and performing arts to all age groups in Bonner County. If you’re interested in learning more about how to become a volunteer, to take an adult art class, the performing arts season, or to make a donation to this nonprofit, go to www.artinsandpoint.org, visit POAC’s Gallery, 313 N. Second Ave.; or call the office at 208-263-6139.
