Another successful year for summer arts program
By Rose Sgarlato
SPARTA — Sparta Summer Arts Workshop celebrated the end of another successful program on July 26 with a Final Arts Evening showcasing the many talents of the students.
Focusing on art, orchestra, band and drama and held at Sparta Middle School, the five-week program, open to fifth graders and up, completed its 29th year. Chris Arnold and Karen Scott, co-directors of Summer Arts, have a simple mission statement:
“To provide enrichment in the areas of performing and visual arts in a secure and creative environment where students and teachers interact for inspiration and promotion of the arts.”
Approximately 75 students participated in the 2017 season, according to art teacher Rosalie Vallario who teaches art, sketch and paint.
In addition to art on display in many forms, there were band, chorus and improvisation performances plus a 30-minute version of the play “Matilda.” Photography and digital animation is also offered at Summer Arts and was featured at the Final Arts Evening.
Traditionally 9th grade students who have been attending Summer Arts become students in training and eventually teaching assistants. The program enjoys a great reputation and seems to be enjoyed by all. Here are some comments from experienced Summer Arts kids:
"I love choosing my classes, and all of the teachers are amazing so you always enjoy your classes, " said Rachel Leitner, 8th grader at Sparta Middle School.
"I like how it makes a connection with the older and younger kids and makes the transitions from different schools easier and also gives the younger kids a place to feel at home and welcome,” said Zander Papandrikos, 10th grader at Sparta High School.
"Summer Arts Workshop introduced me to my best friends that I otherwise wouldn't have ever met," said Georgia Paraskos, 8th grader at Sparta Middle School.
Contact the program at <URL destination="http://www.spartasummerarts.org ">www.spartasummerarts.org