Walk into Chelsea Watts’ art classroom at Glenwood Elementary, and you’ll see 3rd, 4th, and 5th-grade artists deeply engaged in a fresh artistic process: rolling vibrant acrylic paint across smooth surfaces, experimenting with textures and cut shapes, and holding their breath right before they “pull” a fresh print to reveal their design.
Thanks to a classroom grant from the Kentwood Public Schools Education Foundation (KPSEF), Glenwood students are exploring the creative world of gel plate printmaking — discovering the joy of layering, experimentation, and artistic discovery.
Hands-On Exploration Built to Last
Traditional printmaking techniques, like linoleum carving, often require sharp carving tools that aren't safe or practical for elementary hands, while other methods rely on heavy presses that stretch school budgets.
Through KPSEF funding, Glenwood secured a complete class set of reusable gel printing plates and rubber brayers. Gel plates give young students a safe, tactile, and direct way to explore authentic printmaking. Because the equipment is durable and washable, it serves as a lasting addition to the art studio — giving hundreds of Falcon artists the chance to create with this set year after year.
Building Confidence Through the Process
While lessons align directly with National Core Arts Standards — teaching composition, texture, positive and negative space, and color theory — the most significant impact is happening in how students approach creating.
Upper elementary is often the age when young artists become overly critical of their work. Gel plate printing completely changes that perspective. Because the plates can easily be wiped clean or built upon layer by layer, students are free to experiment without the fear of ruining a piece. An unexpected print isn't a dead end; it simply becomes an interesting background texture for the next creative layer.
The goal is to help students embrace the creative process and turn every unexpected result into a masterpiece, in printmaking and beyond.
— Chelsea Watts, Glenwood Elementary Art Teacher
Sustaining Innovation in the Arts
While building art budgets cover essential everyday consumables like paint, paper, and brushes, acquiring specialized, durable studio equipment is often out of reach without dedicated donor support.
This grant bridges that gap, placing professional-quality tools directly into students' hands and opening up new avenues for self-expression, curiosity, and artistic growth.
Thank you to our community of donors and partners whose generous support makes grants like this possible across Kentwood Public Schools.
