MPA ArtReach Director Sharon Fishel demonstrates the relationship between art and geometry to first grade FCPS students. Photo courtesy of MPA
On May 29, McLean Project for the Arts was awarded the Fairfax County Public Schools Blue Ribbon Community Partner award (its highest award for nonprofit partners) for their work with the schools through MPA's ArtReach program.
MPA takes its ArtReach program into the schools reaching every member of the student body, including special education students. Their resident artist in the schools focuses on special programs and extended learning activities. January through March, MPA also features docent-led gallery tours for elementary school students, including hands-on art activities. Both in-school and in-gallery programs demonstrate art principles and incorporate many of the concepts included in the SOLs. MPA provides free bus transportation to its galleries to Title 1 schools, schools designated by Fairfax County Public Schools as “at-risk” schools with large numbers of English as second language students or students who qualify for free or reduced lunches.