The elementary visual arts program helps students develop their creative abilities, as well as increase their understanding of the basic concepts of art production. The curriculum is concept based and lessons are created to increase knowledge and skill in using color, texture, value, form, shape, line, and principles of design. Art rom contemporary and historical cultures are introduced and students learn to critically analyze finished pieces using the basic language of art. Growth in creative, intellectual and psychomotor abilities result as the young artist gains experience in many different media, including work in 2-D, 3-D and ceramics. Critical thinking skills are reinforced through the manipulation and refinement of abstract ideas. Creativity is encouraged as elements and interpretations of individual problems are expressed with infinite possibilities. Elementary art students not only acquire production and analytical skills, but also benefit from their successes and accomplishments through increased self awareness of their talents. Elementary students have art classes weekly for fifty minutes with a visual arts specialist. School, regional and All-District Art Shows provide opportunities for students to display their work.

Middle school visual art students continue to expand their knowledge and skills learned at the elementary level. The elements of art and principles of design are taught in more complex projects, using a wide variety of media, as the students develop increased awareness and observational skills. Creative potential is nurtured. Students learn to recognize the visual structures and functions of art through the observation, comprehension, and application of composition and design principles. Students analyze and respond to artwork and understand feelings and ideas expressed in 2-D and 3-D works of art created by artists of many cultures, places, and times. In 6th and 7th grade, art is taken in exploratory rotation programs. Students can pursue their training in the visual arts through a 6th grade Future Pathways course and the 7th grade Fine Arts Block. In 8th grade, a two-semester Arts/Crafts course is offered which helps students prepare for high school art classes.

Students in high school visual arts classes continue their in-depth studies as they progress from beginning to advanced levels. Innovative and challenging work is provided as creative thinking in artistic perception, creative expression, cultural and historical context, and aesthetic valuing are promoted. Student artwork demonstrates a wide variety of finished pieces in 2-D and 3-D created with more complex techniques and procceses. Students exhibit their work in school, regional, and All-District Art Shows. Many participate in juried shows and competitions throughout the suburban region. The high school visual arts program offers a comprehensive list of courses. Introductory level classes include Drawing, Design Arts, Mixed Media and Ceramics. Intermediate courses include Three Dimensional Design, Photography 1, Digital Design 1 and 2, Drawing 2, Painting 1 and 2, Figure and Portrait and Sculpture . Advanced art courses comprise of Photography 2 and 3, Advanced 3-D Studies, AP Studio Art, AP Art History 1 and 2, Ceramics 2, Sculpture, Advanced 3-D Studies, Painting 2 and Photography 2 and 3. In each of the courses, individual creativity is developed to a higher degree and skill development and understanding is increased. The culmination of a Parkway Visual Arts education results in a very high level of self expression and quality found in the students’ work.