What is Art Discovery?
 Art Discovery is Helen Baller Elementary's PTA-funded art immersion program that brings hands on art lessons into the classroom. Volunteers present a different artist or technique each month for grades K-5.  

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What makes this program rewarding? 

Most volunteers say the best part is watching students light up with pride when they create something they're proud of. You'll witness kids discover new talents, connect with history and culture, and express themselves in ways they didn't know they could. It's joyful, creative, and meaningful every single time. 

 

Who runs the Art Discovery program at Helen Baller? 

The overall program is organized by the Art Discovery Chair, a parent volunteer who: 

• Designs the curriculum for the year

• Sets the curriculum calendar and coordinates with teachers

• Helps onboard first-time Kindergarten leads

• Organizes the 5th grade legacy project 

• Prepares and distributes the lesson plans

• Maintains supplies and organizes the volunteer team

• Acts as a liaison between the PTA and Art Discovery volunteers 

 

The Chair role is supported by classroom Leads, General Volunteers, supply helpers, and behind-the-scenes prep volunteers. 

 

What does a classroom Lead do?

The classroom Lead is the point person for Art Discovery in one specific class. They: 

• Review the lesson materials for the month

• Coordinate with the teachers and any General Volunteers

• Present the artist or technique and guide the project during the lesson 

 

Some Leads teach every month, and others may rotate with a partner. We provide everything you need to feel ready. 

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I am a parent of a kindergartener, and have never been a Lead before. Who helps me get started? 

We know kindergarten is a big transition for families. That's why the Art Discovery Chair will personally lead the first Art Discovery lesson of the year, to help get things started. You'll get a front-row view of how to engage with our youngest learners. After that, you will have access to the same materials as other Leads. Always reach out to the Art Discovery Chair with any questions - we're here to help you feel supported. 

Do I need to be an artist or a teacher? 
Not at all! While it is important that each volunteer have interest in the visual arts, you are not required to be a professional artist or a certified teacher to participate in the program. You just need: 

• Curiosity​

• A positive attitude

• A willingness to explore alongside students
   

Your role will be to support and encourage creativity, not critique it. 

What does a typical lesson look like? 

Depending on the subject and the grade, a typical lesson includes: 

• A 5-20 minute art history introduction to the artist and their life/style, or the technique 

• A 40-55 minute hands-on art activity where students create

• You acting as a guide for the project, and celebrating their creativity! 

What time commitment does it take? 

For classroom Leads: 60-90 minutes per month 
This includes previewing the lesson and related materials, gathering the class art supplies from the Art Discovery closet, and leading the lesson

For classroom General Volunteers: 45-60 minutes per month 
This includes supporting the lead in the classroom, including any cleanup 

Are there any fees to join Art Discovery? Any other requirements? 

There are no monetary fees to Lead or be a General Volunteer. However, all persons must have their background cleared by the Camas School District before participating. Please allow a 2 week minimum processing time before your clearance is approved or renewed. 

Can I Lead or Volunteer in more than one class? 

Yes! If a class needs a Lead or General Volunteers, you are free to sign-up. To get on our roster of Leads and General Volunteers, please fill out this Google Form and submit it. 

 

How are lessons scheduled? 

​At the beginning of the year teachers will determine and communicate to the Art Discovery Chair and classroom leads what the preferred time and day of the month works best. 

 

Oops! What if I make a mistake while teaching or doing the project? 

Congratulations - you're a human and an artist! Mistakes are inevitable and part of learning for you and the students. The kids won't notice and the goal isn't perfection. It's about sharing the joy of creativity and giving students the space to explore. 

 

What if the class gets noisy or off-track? 

That's normal. Art is exciting! Teachers stay in the room and can help manage behavior. Your job is to keep the energy fun and focused. We'll provide optional tips for how to approach the lesson each month. 

 

I am a Lead or General Volunteer, and I am sick and cannot participate in the day's lesson. Who do I contact? 

​If you are a lead, please reach out to the teacher and the Art Discovery Chair. Either the lesson will be rescheduled for another day in the month. In certain circumstances the Chair may be able to secure coverage for the day. If you are a General Volunteer, please reach out to your classroom lead directly. 

 

I am a Lead or General Volunteer and can no longer participate in the program at all. Who do I contact?

​As this is a volunteer program, we understand that life happens. We've all been there! If you are a Lead, more notice is always better than none. Please reach out to the teacher and the Art Discovery Chair as soon as possible. If you are a General Volunteer, please reach out to your class Lead. 

 

Where can I find more information about the 5th grade legacy project? 

More information about the 5th Grade Legacy Project will be made available soon!