New Art Program Available For Pre-School Students

WVCA Offers Art as Form of Expression for Children
by Mike Tressa

Forty Fort - The Wyoming Valley Children's Association has found a new way to include their students. The organization's pre-school class, which includes both typical and developmentally disabled children, was looking for a way to have all students benefit from a shared activity. This opportunity came in the form of Arts Awareness. "We had a connection with Arts Universe in downtown Wilkes-Barre," said Director of Development Craig Lukatch. "Some of the artists were coming and working with our kids."

The students were able to use different methods to work on their canvas. Since everyone couldn't grip a paintbrush, the school used feathers, sponges, rollers, and almost anything the students could get their hands on. "Basically, you have a blank slate and you do whatever, you become the creator," said Lukatch. "We tell the kids, here's your paint, here's your tools of the trade. Some are unique ways like sponges and rollers."

All students participated and it was different than most other art activities. "What was different for them for making these pictures was that we used canvas," said pre-school teacher Jane Denion. "It was kind of fun for them and something different." The students were able to express whatever style they wanted. Some of the typical students even assisted the other students with their works.

Francesca Scarrano is a pre-school at the school with Rett's syndrome. Rett's syndrome is a dehabilitating neurological disorder characterized by loss of muscle tone and movement. The art program has helped Francesca have a productive use of her hands while including her with the rest of the class. Her mother, Pam, is extremely pleased with her work. "We're just so impressed by this school," she said. "She [Francesca] has done so many things that she would not be able to do had she been in a regular school."

Not only did the program benefit the students interactions, it also helped the organization. Lukatch organized an art sale to sell student works and raise money for the WVCA. Profits have exceeded expectations. "We've seen an interest from not only the parents but local community," said Lukatch. "We had an art show and sold several hundred dollars worth of artwork." Many of the works are still on sale in the schools library and the WVCA hope to continue the program with future students.

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