The Kerry James Marshall School, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a public elementary school named after the renowned American artist Kerry James Marshall. The school, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, is part of the Chicago Public Schools system. The decision to name the school after Kerry James Marshall reflects the city's commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of African American artists and intellectuals.
Background and History
Kerry James Marshall is a celebrated painter known for his large-scale, hyper-realistic depictions of African American life and history. Born in 1955 in Birmingham, Alabama, Marshall grew up in Los Angeles and later moved to Chicago, where he currently resides. His work has been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, including the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, and the Tate Britain in London. Marshall’s paintings often explore themes of identity, community, and social justice, making him an ideal namesake for a school dedicated to fostering a love of learning and creativity in its students.
Academic Programs and Initiatives
The Kerry James Marshall School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes arts integration, STEM education, and social-emotional learning. The school’s academic programs are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in high school and beyond. Some of the initiatives and programs available at the school include:
- Visual arts classes, where students can learn various techniques and mediums, including painting, drawing, and sculpture
- Music and performance programs, which offer students the opportunity to engage with different genres and styles of music
- STEM education, including coding, robotics, and engineering, to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Social-emotional learning, which focuses on building self-awareness, self-regulation, and relationships skills
The school also partners with local organizations and institutions to provide students with access to additional resources and opportunities. For example, the school has collaborated with the Art Institute of Chicago to offer students behind-the-scenes tours and workshops with professional artists.
| Grade Level | Enrollment | Student-Teacher Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-K | 50 | 10:1 |
| K-5 | 350 | 15:1 |
| 6-8 | 200 | 12:1 |
Facilities and Resources
The Kerry James Marshall School is housed in a state-of-the-art facility that features modern classrooms, a library, a gymnasium, and a rooftop garden. The school’s design incorporates elements of sustainability and energy efficiency, with features such as solar panels, a green roof, and a rainwater harvesting system. The facility also includes a community center, which offers after-school programs, adult education classes, and health services to local residents.
Technology and Digital Resources
The school is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including:
- Chromebooks and laptops for every student
- Interactive whiteboards and smartboards in every classroom
- A computer lab and makerspace for coding, robotics, and digital art
- A virtual reality program for immersive learning experiences
The school's digital resources also include online platforms for homework, communication, and collaboration, as well as access to digital libraries and educational databases.
What is the school's approach to arts education?
+The Kerry James Marshall School believes that arts education is essential to a well-rounded education. The school offers a range of arts classes, including visual arts, music, and performance, and integrates arts into other subjects, such as math and language arts.
How does the school support students with special needs?
+The school has a dedicated team of special education teachers, therapists, and support staff who work together to provide individualized support to students with special needs. The school also offers inclusive programs and services, such as occupational therapy and speech therapy, to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
The Kerry James Marshall School is a vibrant and dynamic learning community that is dedicated to providing its students with a world-class education. With its commitment to arts integration, social-emotional learning, and community engagement, the school is an exemplary model of what a 21st-century education should look like.
