Thompson High School's Art Department has been awarded a $20,000 grant titled "Integrating Design for the Workplace" from the Alabama State Department of Education. This significant funding has enabled the school to enhance its visual art program, providing students with the tools and training needed to explore new forms of artistic expression and prepare for careers in the rapidly growing field of digital art and design.
The grant was used to purchase cutting-edge equipment, including 3D printers, iPads, and digital drawing software, along with the necessary licenses and accessories. The initiative aims to expand educational opportunities, enhance career readiness, improve student art portfolios, and foster inclusivity within the program.
"This project has been made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Department of Education," said THS Visual Arts teacher Michelle McGraw. "We believe this investment will have a lasting impact on our students' education and future career prospects."
Students are already expressing their excitement about the new possibilities this grant will bring to their classrooms.
"I'm so thankful that I get to express myself with new technology, and it’s an amazing addition to my class," said Janiah Martin, a senior in the program.
Oswin Colley, another student, added, "I've been using programs like Procreate and 3D printing software for years now, and I'm so excited to have these in the classroom for other students to experiment and create with."
With this new funding, Thompson High School's Art Department is poised to prepare their art students to develop skills that will serve them in college and beyond.