Meadowview students showcase work at April art night; school uses event as fundraiser and monthly recognition

Meadowview Elementary held its Art Night in April to display student work, meet state art standards and raise money for the school art program, Principal Lisa Reznor said.

The event, presented to the Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District Board of Education on May 12, gave students the opportunity to present pieces they had prepared in weekly art classes and during open studio time, Reznor said. Art Night also partnered with the Meadowview PTO, which hosted a Scholastic book fair and food trucks.

"We use the art night not only as a fundraiser for our art studio, but also as a way for students to achieve their present standards," said Lisa Reznor, principal. Reznor said the presentation emphasized the art standards of creating, presenting, responding and connecting.

Alanis Wagner, Meadowview's art teacher, told the board the event provides a formal opportunity for students to exhibit work and practice presenting it to an audience. Wagner described grade-level projects ranging from stained-glass window designs to a Rapunzel photo installation in the gym and a fifth-grade fantasy tree sculpture.

One parent quoted in the presentation said, "Art night is a great activity for my kids to show off their art. My daughter was so proud of having her stuff hanging on the walls." Reznor said every student had at least one piece displayed.

Board members who spoke after the presentation encouraged sharing Meadowview's approach with other elementary schools in the district. A board member asked about district-level displays; Reznor said each school submits 25 pieces to the district high school art show.

The board received the presentation as an informational program spotlight; no action was required.