F.C. Reed Art Program Parent Page

Art Class rules and pledge form

Dear Parents,

           My name is Julie Christian Bender, the Visual Art Teacher at F.C. Reed Middle School in Bridgman. I am so pleased to be working with your student to develop awareness of art in our world, appreciation for artist's in history, understanding of cultures through visual images and, of course, studio production! I have a Undergraduate degree in Art Education from the University of Michigan and a Master's degree in Art Ed from Western Michigan University. Additional endorsements on my certificate include Elementary Education and Middle School Math. I love learning and have attended several schools to further my training.

          The nature of the F.C. Reed Middle School Art courses is exploratory, with a strong emphasis on variety of media and subject matter. Students are encouraged to try new materials, techniques and ideas through the projects listed below in the curriculum guides. All of Standards and Benchmarks align with the Michigan Essential Goals and Objectives. Most projects have some co-operative learning aspect to them. For example, in an animation project, 5th graders are given the option to work in teams while they design characters and scenery, write stories, and practice a short skit. 8th graders work together to design a new mall in their architecture study.

         It is my hope that you and your student will be interested continuing art education experiences because of learning that takes place here at school. Visiting art museums, galleries and buildings on your travels can give rich and enduring memories for young people. The Art Institute of Chicago, The Sears Tower, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, The Krasl Art Center in St. Joseph are just some of the places referred to in art class over the course of the four year curriculum cycle. Digital imaging techniques are discussed in class and students are encouraged to try taking pictures from new angles and perspectives, with parent permission. All work done in the Middle School program applies to our High School curriculum, and many students choose to continue Art training here at Bridgman.

          Do not hesitate to contact me at 269-466-0303 with comments, concerns or questions. It is my belief that strong home-school connections make the best available for our student. The links below give curriculum outlines for each grade.

                                                                                                              Yours Truly,

                                                                                                               Julie Christian Bender