Lisa loves Fridays. That’s the day that she heads to Courtenay Elementary where Mrs. Jungwirth’s grade 3/4 class digs into all sorts of creative art projects.
Lisa has been visiting the school and Heidi Jungwirth’s class for five years now (with a break due to COVID-19) and it’s time that both the students and Lisa look forward to.
Express Yourself
Art is a form of learning and expression and that’s what happens each Friday. The class uses whatever tools they need to get the right effect – everything from squeegees, to sponges, to brushes. And in doing so, they express themselves and work with others.
Rita Masterskaya, an Assistant with L’Arche Comox Valley, attends the class with Lisa to provide any support that she might need.
“It’s a great opportunity for the kids to work alongside someone with diverse abilities,” says Rita. “They learn how Lisa communicates and that everyone can use a bit of help sometimes.”
“Can I bring you some paint Lisa?” the students ask once in awhile or, “Do you need anything?”
Lisa enjoys the time she spends with the kids and learning a little bit about them. “What is your mom doing?” she asks, “What are you going to have for dinner tonight?”
No matter what your ability or age, art proves to be something that everyone can take part in and in the process share with others. And even though Lisa loves Fridays, she doesn’t limit her creativity to just one day a week, regularly taking part in L’Arche’s art programs, where community members are welcome to participate or volunteer.
Bonus!
It turns out that there’s another benefit to being at Courtenay Elementary on Fridays if you’re a teacher… or if you’re Lisa. That’s the day the students serve tea to the teachers, another opportunity for them to learn about sharing and being kind.
Learn more about L’Arche’s art programs by visiting our Activity Guide.
