In 4th Grade We Learn That Differences Make Us Unique.
S.M.A.R.T. Believers
Briscoe - S.M.A.R.T. Creative Programming
STORY
In 2005 Briscoe Elementary had no art curriculum and asked S.M.A.R.T. to teach an art class. Yes, we said, but classes would be conducted on our campus so students could engage with a robust creative experience. Within 2 years we were serving pre-k through 5th. In 2017 Briscoe was certified as an International Baccalaureate World School focused on world music and fine arts. The work continues.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Briscoe S.M.A.R.T. creative partnership is the only one of its kind in the San Antonio Independent School District. Rooted in neuroscience, our program strengthens emotional health and well being through creative exercise. That means we give our students hands on, sensory experiences that engage emotion and encourage reflection and risk-taking. S.M.A.R.T.S.'s TEKS and IB aligned creative programming directly supports Briscoe Elementary's IB World School curriculum.
Vitamin C Philosophy
We believe every student deserves a mindful education that emphasizes and strengthens emotional health and wellness leading to better decision making. We developed a methodology that supports this belief
and we call it the Vitamin Cs. Learn more!
In Pre-K And Kinder We Embrace Curiosity
Curiosity
Pre-K Tours
Inspiring the curious minds of our Pre-K Students, the Pre-K experience begins with an art exercise emphasizing individuality, a facilities tour, art exhibit and introduction to the brain. S.M.A.R.T.’s goal is to cultivate ownership of the space, encourage questions, instill confidence and support inquisitiveness. Additionally, this is their first introduction to gallery etiquette. Watch.
Curiosity
Kinder.The Clay Way.
The Clay Way cultivates curiosity and risk- taking through the sense of touch. With rapidly developing motor skills, touch is critical in this stage of development and clay encourages exploration and exposure to new tools. Additionally, we have a fun discussion about the brain and motor skills. Watch.
Curiosity
Kinder, 1st, 2nd. Yoga
S.M.A.R.T. partner Yoga Day begins teaching breath work and mindfulness with Kinder, on school grounds and continues the work through 2nd grade. S.M.A.R.T. continues to support the practice, by incorporating breath work at the beginning, middle and end of all grade levels reinforcing the fact that we are empowered in calming or own nervous system.
In 1st Grade We Paint How We Feel
Creativity as Expression
1st Grade Abstract
For this 4 week series, 1st grade students experience creative exercise of emotional self expression. Students refinine fine motor skills, supporting muscle memory as they begin to write. Emotion, self discovery, confidence, risk taking and creativity are front and center.It's an amazing, energetic, beautiful experience! Watch.
In 2nd Grade We Learn That We Are All Connected
Calm is Imagination:
2nd Grade
This series is intended to connect and cultivate student voice to creative problem solving in city building to a real world setting. Studying the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright and through imagination and building urban, suburban and rural “San Antonio”, they begin to understand the connectedness of people and communities, how it is a system and where they fit in. Watch.
In 3rd Grade We Learn About The Power Of Our Brain
Clarity and the Brain
3rd Grade Art is Neuroscience
In partnership with our neuroscientists, Dr. Bree Soteros and Dr. Amandine Grenier, the Art is Neuroscience series explores art and the brain. Anchored in the study of optical illusion art and the sense of sight, students are introduced to the brain and it’s functions. This powerful combination of art and science teaches brain empowerment and opens up doors to self understanding, confidence and emotional well being. Students earn the title of Brain Ambassador and use their knowledge to share with their families in our annual Brain Fair celebration at the end of the year. Watch.
In 4th Grade We Learn That Differences Make Us Unique.
Compassion is Connection. 4th Grade Assemblage
S.M.A.R.T. teaches social studies and compassion through the art of assemblage as founded by artist Louise Nevelson. Understanding community, culture and cultivating compassion are essential for developing healthy citizens. Watch.
In 5th Grade We Learn That Our World Can Be Reimagined
Confidence is Reimagining
5th Grade Contemporary Art
Students are presented with an opportunity to reflect on their achievements and demonstrate their Confidence in emotional problem solving. Focusing on installation artists we weave the topic of inclusion vs. exclusion into the artistic experience. Here we are studying Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota. Watch here.
Chiharu Shiota lecture.
Composing and creating their pieces.
Final installation.
Chiharu Shiota lecture.
Partners
And our committed community donors.