Grass Valley Charter is a public expeditionary learning school (ELS). The ELS approach is experiential and project-based, involving students in original research, with experts, to create high-quality products for audiences beyond the classroom. This means the children, both in the classroom and out, learn not only with books; but also by a hands on approach, with projects and field- work.

In the Dog Portrait Project each student with the help of parent volunteers in completing two art pieces; one will be a gift to their family, the other put into a silent auction. This is a large endeavor-there are two classes of 22 students. Together; we are completing 88 dog portraits within two months. The children are not only learning about their artistic abilities; they are gaining pride by seeing what they CAN do with the aid of Katherine’s lessons, projector tools and an amazing, dedicated group of parent volunteers. Further; the students are fostering character by learning to be givers for the greater whole.

The proceeds from all sales will go to the completion of the new school library (a major renovation of a Victorian house next door to our school--- being rebuilt from top to bottom, again by parent volunteers). Once this project is complete, the money will go to the school, which we all know, unfortunately, how much our schools need it.

Note: You may search for the artist by name to make it easier if you'd like!