The primary goal of the NCCS elementary art program is to assist the students in developing an appreciation for and an understanding of the various art disciplines, and to explore the art forms as an opportunity for personal expression. Students will be introduced to a variety of hands-on activities and experiences that develop perceptual, creative, and motor skills.

Art class also provides a time for problem solving and exploration with a wide range of art materials and tools, including the computer. Students will be introduced to the artwork of the great masters and many cultures. Often, projects are integrated with grade level curricula. Caring for classroom supplies, respecting the work of others, achieving independence, and learning to communicate through art are stressed.

Elementary Art Instruction is provided for each child beginning in grade one, although certain extended day kindergarten programs also receive art instruction. Length of art class is as follows:

Grades 1&2: 45 minutes, once a week
Grades 3&4: 50 minutes, once a week
Grades 5&6: 60 minutes, once a week

We encourage parents and families to assist in their child’s artistic development by creating and maintaining an exhibition space at home for children’s artwork, and encouraging dialogue with your child about their creations.

Elementary school
art galleries now online

Art galleries for each of North Colonie Central School District's elementary schools are now available online. The galleries showcase samples of students' project work completed at each grade level. Along with each project is a description of the objectives of the lesson and pertinent artists of reference. Additional examples will be added to the galleries over time. » MORE

The Elementary Art Explorer Program

The Art Explorers Program is an enrichment opportunity for students primarily in grades 5 and 6. At each elementary school a select group of students will be referred by their art teacher for their exceptional skill level, motivation and creativity. The Art Explorers Program consists of two offerings—an extra art session once a week at each elementary school, and an invitation to participate in an after school art class series. One series takes place in the fall, and the other session is in the spring. Students from all six elementary schools participate at one school location.

Art explorers
tour museum collections

Fifth and sixth-graders enrolled in the Elementary Art Explorers program enjoyed a field trip to the Empire State Plaza and New York State Museum this spring.

Students toured the collection of abstract expressionism paintings and sculptures, which are part of the concourse permanent collection, as well as the Latin American and Caribbean Art exhibit on loan from the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.