WS/FCS Visual Art Education Philosophy
“I do not want art for a few any more than education for a few, or freedom for a few.”~William Morris
The WS/FCS Visual Art Education Curriculum is the result of the effort of art teachers
from all levels in the county to create a “user-friendly” guide to the curriculum. This
compilation of goals from the NCDPI along with local recommendations addresses the
articulation of visual literacy from elementary through high school. The purpose of the
curriculum is to provide art teachers with a common reference point from which to plan,
implement, and evaluate the instructional program for art education within their school. Art
education for students on all levels is founded on a discipline-based approach. It is the intent
of this instructional program to integrate the study of art criticism, art history, aesthetics, and
art production through the goals, objectives, and strategies proposed herein.
It is vital that our visual arts program encompasses a sequential approach to
instruction from kindergarten through twelfth grades. The elementary art education program
establishes a solid foundation in the elements and principles of design for students. Middle
school students who elect to take art, explore media and techniques while delving deeper into
art basics. All art courses at the high school level are elective. Classes are intended to serve
the needs of the beginner as well as those of the individual who desires to develop a
professional portfolio.
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools include 80 schools and serve approximately
52,400 students. Demographic diversity is the norm. Our multi-cultural community allows us
to celebrate the artistic achievements of a variety of peoples. Therefore, our curriculum
creates learning opportunities from a variety of cultural perspectives. Consideration for
accommodating students with special needs is the responsibility of all art teachers. These
populations include exceptional children, gifted, ESL (English as a second language), and
others. Teachers modify instruction to meet the needs and ability levels of all students.
Art learning and experience involves the use of a wide range of mental processes as
students mature in artistic expression and abilities. Gaining knowledge in art is a process,
and can be divided across three specific strands: Visual Literacy, Contextual Relevancy, and
Critical Response. Each of these strands is relevant across grade levels and provides
unifying threads of understanding supported by the school system’s goals and objectives.
We in the WS/FCS believe that all students are capable of achieving success through art.