Teachers find ways to display students’ art without classroom

RIDGEFIELD — Those popping into Seasons Coffee Shop for a cup of Joe can find delight in something on the walls: bats, in art form. First-graders in Brigid Taylor’s Class at Union Ridge Elementary School have art on display at the Liberty Theater and Seasons Coffee Shop, inspired by a lesson on the winged creatures. Taylor thought of the idea at the start of the school year, when remote work prevented students from seeing their work displayed in a classroom. She spoke with Earleen Griswold, owner of Seasons Coffee, and they thought a display there would spark joy in the community, as well as the students. Taylor hopes it strengthens a sense of community. “We hoped it would catch on, and it has,” said Taylor, noting that her co-workers, friends in other communities and in neighboring school districts also love the idea. Other teachers at the school are also helping get their students’ work displayed. View artwork from Andrea McCain’s kindergarten class at Rosauers Supermarket. Kristen Sullens has kindergartners’ artwork on display in the window at Ridgefield Hardware. Meanwhile, at Zebrun’s Starliner, check out the artwork created by first-graders in Kirsten Long’s class. “Children’s art brings out the best in all of us,” Taylor said. “It is pure, simple and reflects the best of what children see in the world and I think what we inspire to see in ourselves.”