In order to graduate, students must take a visual and performing arts class. There are many different VPA classes offered, and only one class is required to be taken. Students who are more extroverted can choose to take a performing arts class such as theater, dance, or choir. However, those who are more introverted can choose to take a visual arts class, such as Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, or AP Studio Art.
Ceramics:
Julissa Andrade and Lauren Gable teach this class as there are multiple class periods and an advanced ceramics class.
In this class, students are able to make clay sculptures and different forms of pottery. Some are assigned projects, but students are able to make their own creations from clay.
“I like building stuff, doing pottery on the wheel and by hand,” ceramics student Mia Plazola Palomino (‘25) said.
For those looking to take the class, Andrade teaches both regular and advanced ceramics from periods 1-4, and teaches AP Art History sixth period. Gable teaches regular ceramics from periods 5 and 6.
Drawing and Painting:
Both painting and drawing are taught by Jenna Draine. In drawing, students learn about different art styles ranging from modernism to pop art, as well as drawing techniques, like sketching and shading. Painting is similar to drawing as it also teaches students styles, techniques, and tools that can be applied to painting.
“I needed a VPA [and] I’ve always liked drawing. It’s an opportunity to let go and just draw,” drawing student, Arianna Brito (‘25) said.
AP Studio Art:
This class, also taught by Draine, is perfect for art enthusiasts who may have already taken a previous art course, and want to take a higher level class.
“I really like art, and I took an art class last year and I wanted to do one where I had more creative freedom,” AP Studio art student, Kate Lodge (‘25) said.
Because this is a higher level art class, students are allowed more time and materials to work on projects. Whether it be paint, pen, or even stitching, students have more creative freedom in this class.
These art classes are perfect for students who are looking for a VPA who want to be in a more relaxed environment. These aren’t the only art related classes offered either, just the ones that are more focused on common art forms. AP Art history, a class on how art has changed over time, and Floral design, a 2-year course that allows students to receive a floral design certification at the end. This class works with different methods of organizing flowers, and frequently provides flowers for events.
Not only are these classes necessary for graduation, these classes also provide students with life skills. From making pottery, to creating floral arrangements, and sketching a drawing, these classes are beneficial to students and can be enjoyed by all.
