The Arts at DECA High
At DECA we are thankful for the Ohio Arts Council that yearly provides a grant which allows us to create an Arts program at DECA High. The talented Sierra Leone works as our Artist in residence and she has taken the time, energy, and her many connections with artists in the city to create a program that pushes our students in their artistic talents. Under Sierra Leone's guidance DECA has students creating spoken word pieces and performing them, painting canvases as a way of expressing their feelings, and creating entire programs that exhibit multiple forms of art from across the campus.
Art Internship
"Creativity at the Core" is an inspiring art program at our high school that centers on a Fall internship. In this program, students collaborate with the seasoned artist, Sierra Leone to create a unique art artifact, focusing on a specific medium of art each year.
Each session revolves around a central theme, guiding students through a series of engaging workshops. These workshops not only hone their artistic skills but also provide opportunities to connect with other talented artists from the Dayton area. This enriching experience allows students to explore their creativity and expand their artistic horizons.
Problem Solvers
The "Creative Problem Solvers" program at DECA is an innovative initiative that empowers students to use art as a tool for social change. Working closely with our Artist in Residence, this group of talented and passionate students tackles various issues facing their community through creative expression. The program encourages students to identify and explore social, environmental, and cultural challenges, and then use their artistic skills to raise awareness and inspire action.
Whether through visual arts, performance, or multimedia projects, the Creative Problem Solvers craft thoughtful and impactful works that resonate with their peers and the broader community. They engage in collaborative brainstorming sessions, workshops, and discussions to develop their ideas and refine their artistic approaches. This hands-on experience not only enhances their creative abilities but also fosters a deep understanding of the power of art to communicate complex messages and evoke change.
DECA Talks
At DECA, our seniors have the unique opportunity to turn their autobiographies into TED-Talk style speeches aptly named, DECA TALKS.
This transformative project allows students to share their personal stories and insights with their peers and guests. With guidance from a community leader, each student crafts a compelling and engaging presentation that reflects their experiences and growth.
The process not only enhances their public speaking and storytelling skills but also empowers them to express their individuality and inspire others. This project is a celebration of our students' journeys, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and ability to connect with audiences on a deep and personal level.
Every year, our Artist in Residence, Sierra Leone leads a dedicated group of students in producing a powerful Black History Month program. This program is a vibrant celebration of Black culture, history, and achievements, thoughtfully curated by the students under her guidance. The process begins with extensive research and discussions, where students explore significant historical events, influential figures, and contemporary issues facing the Black community.
With her mentorship, students develop a rich and dynamic program that may include performances, visual arts displays, spoken word, music, and theatrical presentations. Each element of the program is carefully crafted to educate, inspire, and provoke thoughtful reflection among their peers and the broader community. The students work collaboratively to ensure that the program not only honors the legacy of Black history but also connects it to the present day, highlighting ongoing struggles and achievements.
This project is more than just a cultural event; it's an educational experience that deepens students' understanding of history, enhances their creative and organizational skills, and fosters a strong sense of community and cultural pride. By participating in the production of the Black History Month program, students gain valuable experience in event planning, storytelling, and public speaking. They also develop a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of Black history and culture, becoming ambassadors for inclusivity and cultural awareness within the school and beyond.
Beyond all of this, Sierra Leone also collaborates with teachers and administrators on events they would like to see take place each year within the school. She has worked with Mr. Harper in his Meditation class by bringing in Dr. Iyanla Vanzant to do a Zoom session with our students about meditation, helped set up an event with the family of Henrietta Lacks for some of our students that are interested in science, and collaborated with Ms. Coalter and the senior class on painting their graduation caps for the graduation cap mural.
If you have any questions about programs you would love to see in the arts at DECA High, reach out.
sierra.leone@sbcglobal.net