Ridgefield schools to celebrate Youth Art Month

Ridgefield — Each year, the Council for Art Education organizes Youth Art Month, which started in 1961. This March, children from around the country will participate in the event, including students in the Ridgefield School District. During the month, art classes will take place at all four Ridgefield schools, as well as after school. The district also teamed up with local businesses and organizations to help out with the celebration. The events offered during Youth Art Month include an authors gala, musical performances and a poetry contest. Some of the classes offered during the month are a cellphone photography course, jazz funk dance lessons and a class about “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley. “Participation in the fine and performing arts provides our students a creative outlet to express their emotions, thoughts and skills,” said Ridgefield Superintendent Nathan McCann in a release sent out by the district. “Art experiences enhance critical-thinking skills and foster important values such as empathy and tolerance.”