The visual arts are an essential part of the curriculum in Spring Branch Independent School District. Art is the cornerstone in the development of the whole person. In a safe environment, creativity and self expression are nurtured allowing students to realize their own uniqueness and value. Students become active participants in strategic processes based on high expectations. The visual arts area is the primary way to transmit our heritage and provide greater understanding and respect for others and their cultures. Through an integrated, interdisciplinary approach, the visual arts builds bridges to the whole world. Connections are made allowing students to solve problems and think critically. The visual arts can show students a love for learning which will last through their lives. Visual Arts Standards Understand and apply visual arts media,techniques, and processes Use knowledge of visual arts structures and functions Choose and evaluate a range of subject matter, symbols and ideas Understand the visual arts in relation to history and cultures Reflect upon and assess the characteristics and merits of personal work and the work of others Make connections between the visual arts and other subjects   Goals for Spring Branch Secondary Art Education The students of Spring Branch are our most valued asset. The students will be successful. The students will be challenged to make creative and critical decisions to solve problems visually. The students will discover that art is a primary way to transmit their feeling and thoughts in relationship to their environment, their culture, and who they are in today's world. The students will be exposed to ideas, events, and works that communicate man's relationships in the world of the past. The students will be taught the skills necessary to communicate their ideas. The students are considered as unique individuals with merits which fosters greater self esteem. The students will learn to assess their skill level and ability to communicate in visual, written, and verbal language. The students will be provided a safe and secure environment for the evolution and resolution of their ideas. The students will be challenged active participants in a program with high expectations. The students will be exposed to the multitude of options open for vocations centered or stemming from art. The Visual Arts are the cornerstone for growth and learning in S.B.I.S.D. All students are valued learners who can, when provided with a safe and orderly environment, be successful. Through the Visual Arts respect for our heritage and the understanding of cultures is conveyed. Connections are made through multiple disciplines which enhance this understanding. Individual uniqueness is nurtured through creative self expressions and involvement. Analysis of problems promotes critical thinking and assessment in the solutions that are achieved. Spring Branch's Art Educators believe in placing the student of the center of the curriculum. The importance of nurturing human development and developing individual creativity through art activities has long been recognizes. We believe the "Art vivifies life" (Eisner 1972) and that the cultures greatest accomplishment are embodied in it. To be truly educated one needs a basic knowledge and skills in the arts. We as Art Educators use art experience to enhance visual perceptual skills, creativity, critical thinking, and problem solving and to foster higher self esteem and cultural awareness.