Essentials

Visual Arts -The Visuals Arts program at Grant Ranch is facilitated by Erin Lea-Dougherty, aka “Mrs. Erin.” This Arts program has a central focus on the creative process (brainstorm, plan, make, edit, share) that empowers our young artists to take creative risks while flexing a growth mindset. Our young artists here at GRS take inspiration from a wide variety of contemporary and historical artists, many of which are local Denver creatives! These “mentor” artists exemplify how to create community and stand up for what is right (social justice) using their art as their voice. Our young artists will get to explore a variety of materials and skills including, but not limited to: painting, drawing & illustration, fiber art (like sewing & weaving), sculpture, and clay.

Physical Education: Students will learn about and participate in different activities, games, and sports while becoming more fit and using good sportsmanship!

Band – This class is open to middle school students. Instruments available are flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion. We give 2-3 concerts per year. Students in advanced band are eligible to participate in the DPS Citywide Festival and the DPS Solo/Ensemble Festival.

Exploratory Music – This class is open to all middle school students and takes a Modern Band approach to our state standards. Students will learn the basics of ukulele or guitar, drum set (percussion), bass, keyboard, and vocals. We will focus on performing music, music theory, creating music, and analyzing/discussing music.