ArtVan Programming
If you'd like to schedule a visit from the ArtVan at your school or organization, please download the ArtVan request form and mail it in.
Supported By
Art often has the effect of helping children develop creativity and skills to become better students and ultimately more productive citizens. Art acts as a "universal language" that mixes different abilities and cultural backgrounds in order to further development and individual talents.
The Arts Clayton ArtVan and mobile learning center continues to deliver the message of Arts Clayton to the community. Since its debut in the Spring of 2001, the ArtVan has been a true partner in education, using art and music to enhance reading skills, performance in school, and ultimately job skills for children and teens in the community.
The ArtVan Coordinator, Linda Kirchner, has educated thousands of children from the ages of three to thirteen throughout the Clayton County School System, not to mention the hundreds more who visit the ArtVan at cultural festivals and events throughout the year. The ArtVan gladly makes appearances at schools, churches, libraries, and numerous programs and communities throughout the South Metro Atlanta area.
With the continuing support of community sponsors like the Wachovia Foundation, the ArtVan will continue its mission of reaching and educating children who otherwise may not have exposure to the arts.
ArtVan Testimonials
"...the focus to enhance reading and "life" through the arts has been a success. Our teaching staff noticed significant improvement in our children through creative approaches jump started by Arts Clayton. The activities truly focus on "read to succeed" and the children enjoy the art/music activities. The ArtVan is an outstanding program and we wish you continued success. We fully support your program and look forward in continuing our partnership with Arts Clayton."
- Shirley J. Gordon (Director, Head Start Program - Clayton County Community Services)
"...the ArtVan has come to my room 5 times this year. It has been great. Mrs. K is a great story reader. She asks very pertinent questions. The questions always incorporate the story elements as well as pinpoint key vocabulary. Fun, mobile activities are always planned My students really enjoy when the ArtVan comes."
- Monte Huey (Edmonds Elementary)
"Thank you for including E.J. Swint Elementary in the ArtVan Program. The ArtVan successfully exposes our students to areas of the arts that they might not have an opportunity to ever see. ...the ArtVan helps to bridge the gap between disadvantaged students and more advantaged students. Comprehension skills are enhanced as well as speaking and listening skills through this type of enrichment activity."
- Ms. Toni Wilkerson (Literacy Coach) and Ms. Mary Irvin (Instructional Literacy Specialist), E.J. Swint Elementary
"Thank you for allowing us to participate in the ArtVan Program. Mrs. Kirchner and her workers have provided some excellent opportunities for our students to reinforce language arts skills through this program. Research indicates such activities also promotes learning and increases short and long-term memory. I hope this program continues to grow. It is very worthwhile!
- Jill Ridenhour (2003 Principal, Alfretta A. Harper Elementary School)