The Cherry On Top

by Kari Reed, Visual Arts Assistant Teacher

Isaiah and Albatin were not difficult to notice, in fact, they were both outspoken and in need of attention - the typical 'class clowns' - especially when they got together. One of the first things we did in the visual arts group was to randomly choose pairs, in which the kids would work for the remainder of the week. Somehow, Isaiah and Albatin ended up together. Needless to say, I was concerned. I knew this would mean that we would be dealing with the antics all week long, but I wrote it off because they were comfortable with each other and vowed to help them learn not to disturb the class.

My prediction about Isaiah and Albatin's behavior was not far far off, and they soon began to case problems. They were both very clear about their general disinterest and told us on several occasions that they didn't want to be there. Isaiah said time and time again that his mom was making him come and that was the only reason he was there. Despite the obstacles, we slowly began to engage Isaiah and Albatin. They spent some time in the hallways for less than desirable behavior, but they began participating in the lessons, volunteering answers, and even doing the artists' tool tai chi, something that they deemed 'stupid' in the beginning.

They continued to improve, but the real points of transformation happened when they began working on their projects. Leah Samuelson, the visual arts instructor, insisted from the beginning that the kids do as much as possible themselves - and, when working with 10 9-13 year olds, this may not seem like a practical idea. But, my mind was changed as I watched Albatin and Isaiah started to take real ownership and pride in their project. At one point during the drawing phase o the mural, the groups were asked to charcoal their portion of the mural onto the canvas they has stretched. While Albatin and Isaiah were sketching on their canvas, I took the opportunity to run to the bathroom. As I was walking back, Albatin came running out into the hallway. Gearing myself up for a reprimand, I asked him what he was doing in the hallway and why he was running around. He very confidently explained that he was looking for me because he wanted to show me his canvas. He proceeded to take me by the arm and, with a huge smile, led me back into the room explaining the whole time how good he and Isaiah had done and how proud they were of their canvas.

Their positive attitude change continued throughout the rest of the week and they became two of the most excited and participative kids we had in our group. After the showcase, Leah held a small signing ceremony, and their was nothing more rewarding as the pride in their faces as they signed their portion of the mural and asked where the mural would be displayed so that they could show more of their family and friends.

As I watched Isaiah leave with his mom, I couldn't help but overhear him ask her if there was going to be another art camp. She smiled and explained to him that she didn't know. He immediately turned to Dr. Corbitt who happened to be standing next to them and asked him - "Dr. Corbitt, is there going to be another one of these soon? You know, another art camp?"

"Well, I don't know, it all depends on..." Dr. Corbitt trailed off and was promptly interrupted.

"What about Spring Break, Dr. Corbitt? There could be another one on our Spring Break..."

That small conversation was the cherry on top of the already amazing week.