CA Pride - Donna Davenport

I love walking down the halls of CA because I feel as if I am in an art gallery. Thank you to Donna Davenport for helping our young students express themselves artistically. Most of you know that Mrs. Davenport has many roles at CA: Pre-K teacher, second grade science teacher, and co-sponsor of our CARES Club. You may even be aware of her commitment to community service through organizations outside her work here at CA. But today, I want to talk about Donna Davenport, the art teacher.

Mrs, Davenport teaches both Pre-K and Elementary ( first-fifth grades) art. As wonderful as it is to see all of this art so beautifully and proudly displayed, it is even more interesting to walk into one of her classes. I never know what to expect! Whether she is teaching Pre- K or Fifth grade, you may see a display of work by a great artist. Then you will see Mrs. Davenport explaining and demonstrating the techniques and style used by that great artist. Following that students are guided and encouraged to create their own O'Keefe or Monet.

Mrs. Davenport does not shy away from messy or multi-step projects. You may see fruit displayed one day to inspire still life style paintings. The next day you may see her pushing a wheelbarrow filled with concrete to make garden paving stones. I will never forget walking into her room and seeing four year old students lying on their backs painting paper taped underneath the tables. Of course, they were learning what it might have been like for Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel!

Field trips to area museums and galleries are another way Mrs. Davenport enriches the elementary art experience. She is always looking for new and interesting art exhibits and demonstrations appropriate for her students. She also brings artists and outreach programs to school to enhance her instruction. All around our building you can see Mrs. Davenport’s special touch in our displays and scenery for special events and programs. She brings such creative enthusiasm to all that she does. She inspires adults and students alike to appreciate art. Now that is what I call fostering a love of learning.