HORACE MANN PTSA

ART DOCENTS

Being an Art Docent is incredibly rewarding – you'll witness children's creativity bloom and share in their excitement as they discover new artistic techniques. You'll have full support from our Art VP Co-Chairs, access to tested lesson plans from previous years, and a community of fellow docents to share ideas with. Most docents find that once they get started, it becomes one of their favorite volunteer activities!

Art Docents bring art to life in the classroom with monthly volunteer-led lessons. Whether you're artistic or just enthusiastic about helping kids explore creativity, this guide will walk you through everything step-by-step.

Quick Overview: You'll lead one art lesson per month (about 45-60 minutes), with only 5-10 hours of total time per project including prep and cleanup. Everything you need is provided – lesson plans, supplies, and support!

Step 1: Meet With Your Teacher (Quick & Easy!)

• Schedule a meeting to set dates for monthly art classes
• Go over projects they liked or did not like in the past
• Schedule the set dates with the office to reserve the art room
• Make sure to buffer time for cleaning (15-30 minutes after class)

Step 2: Choose Your Lesson

• Try to find a lesson that can be completed within your time frame
• Always have extra paper or an activity to fill up time
• Ensure the art room has all the supplies you need
• Prepare an example copy prior to class
• If cutting paper to size, have extra sheets ready

Step 3: Set Up (10-15 Minutes)

• Arrive early (10-15 minutes) to set up classroom and supplies
• If using the reader board, ensure you have no connection issues or ask office for assistance
• Have art helpers ready to assist during class

Step 4: Teach & Have Fun!

• After introductions and as you present the project, ask questions to get students engaged
• Make sure students sign their work
• Watch time to ensure you will be able to end the project
• Keep circulating the room to make sure everyone has the help they need

Step 5: Quick Cleanup

• Use the dry racks if needed for wet artwork
• Check desks and chairs for anything that needs to be wiped
• Save any useable scraps in the counter corner cubbies
• Ensure all supplies are back in their designated location

Step 6: Display & Celebrate!

• Save art for either hanging in the classroom or for Art Night (Spring)
• It's nice to glue art to larger construction paper to create a frame
• Check if your teacher wants to save art to create a memory book for each student
• Collect artwork throughout the year for the spring Art Night showcase

Lesson Plans & Resources

No need to reinvent the wheel! We have access to tested, grade-appropriate lessons. Pick what looks fun to you, or ask other docents for their favorites. The Art VP Co-Chairs can help you choose lessons that work well for your grade level.

Clay Projects - Special Feature

Our school has a kiln, making clay projects a unique part of our art program:

• One clay project per year for each class
• Collaborate with the Kiln Chair
• Two-part process:
  • Initial clay creation and firing
  • Separate glazing lesson
• Help with distribution of finished pieces back to students

Quick Reminders for Success

Need Help?

For questions or support, contact:

• Art VP Co-Chairs: art@mannptsa.org
• Kiln Chair: kiln@mannptsa.org for clay project questions
• Art Supply Co-Chairs for material needs