We are proud to be the first 2nd grade classes of the brand new Sato Elementary School. We consist of four classes (teachers Amy Fowles, Danielle Hang, Matthew Taylor, and Danny Vu) with a total of 88 2nd grade students. Our school-wide vision is to become a full functioning STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) school across all grade levels. In the early stages of this process, it is difficult to acquire the resources needed for such an endeavor.  Our goal as teachers is to provide a relevant, hands-on learning experience that encompass all five elements of STEAM. 

In our NGSS life science unit, students will develop an understanding of what plants need to grow and how plants depend on animals for seed dispersal and pollination (NGSS 2-LS2-1, 2-LS4-1). Sunflowers will be the main phenomenon of the unit. Students will be learning about the lifecycle of a sunflower, the functionality of plant parts, and how light and water help sunflowers grow. In addition to science, our unit incorporates technology (ISTE 1c, 6a,d), engineering (NGSS 2-LS2-2), and math (CCSS 2.MD.1,9,10) standards. What the unit is lacking is the art (VA.1.CR1.2, VA.10.CO1.2) component especially around the artistic design elements. 

With the support and guidance of local artist Valerie Cooper, from Inner Artist Paint Parties, students will be provided with the opportunity to participate in a guided painting project this spring, April 2018. This project will allow students to demonstrate their knowledge of sunflowers in a creative and artistic way.

This $960 covers:

• All painting materials and supplies needed to complete this project,
• Instructional fee for our artist in residence, Valerie Cooper, who will provide the professional guidance needed to create their own, one of a kind, masterpiece.which is provided by the artist.

Each student will acquire painting techniques that will allow them to express both their creativity and knowledge learned in the life science unit. In result, they will get to showcase their unique sunflower painting for families and the community to see at our school-wide STEAM night on April 24th, 2018.

Students at Sato are yearning for more meaningful artistic opportunities. With Valerie’s guidance and expertise, she will build capacity in us as 2nd grade teachers to then repeat these artistic techniques. Adding this project to our current life science unit is necessary for students to experience a well-rounded STEAM unit. Not only will this project connect to the academic standards, it would be enjoyable and memorable for all students! 

Please consider supporting our young learners in this endeavor. Thank you for taking the time for reading our grant proposal.