Colors and Clay and Fun Galore!

Lewis with his mother Jasmin Picot working
on an art project

The Right Place held their first Annual Art Showcase on Thursday, June 16th and it was a huge success. Not only was it an opportunity for the students to show off their art work from the studio with their parents, it was a great chance to share the program with the community.

The evening consisted of sponsored art exhibits such as "Representing Our World" and "Exploring Color" which were displayed throughout the building. There were hands on art experiences that filled each classroom, such as: working with clay, printmaking, still-life drawings; and loose parts.

The Right Place Head Teacher Melissa Malave with Tyrell

The Art Showcase supports the Art Program at The Right Place. The Art Program is centered around the Atelier, or Studio, a forum for art instruction and exploration. Under the guidance of the Atelierista, children develop their artistic vocabulary in media including pencil, pen, tempera, watercolor, oil and chalk pastels, clay, and wire. Children in the Studio use real art materials and learn authentic art making techniques. The Atelierista collaborates with each teacher to extend Studio experiences into the classroom.

Gavin painting with his mother Laverne Watts

The savory and sweet food offerings included items from the program's Farm-To-School model. Chocolate covered strawberries, spinach and feta puffs, guacamole and bruschetta were some of the delicious selections. This was paired with our fruit and herb infused waters using local fruit and herbs from the school's garden. “My son is a picky eater, but he’s able to try a lot of different foods here,” says Laverne Watts. Students are provided breakfast, lunch, and a snack daily.

Greater Hartford Area Services Coordinator
Major Wesley Geddes

Many of the sponsors attended, as well as members of The Salvation Army, neighbors, friends and family. "I think our family grew just a little bit bigger after Thursday, as well as our hearts", states Heather LaCasse, Director of The Right Place.

Elijah DeJesus having fun working with loose parts

Parents have noticed a big difference in their child since attending The Right Place and experiencing these programs. “I’ve noticed a difference in my son since he started here. There’s older kids in the school, so it makes him want to learn. When it’s time to pick him up, he doesn’t want to leave,” says Rosemary DeJesus, mother of Elijah.

The Right Place offers Nationally Accredited Early Childhood Education to children ages three to five, and helps children acquire the skills they need to be successful learners when they enter kindergarten.

The Right Place centers are operated by The Salvation Army, and are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which ensures the highest quality education for children. Creative experiences, which allow children the opportunity to develop and express their ideas and feelings include art and media, dramatic play, music, language, and movement.