Austin Road Elementary School Awarded 'Vibrant Communities' Grant from Georgia Council for the Arts

Austin Road Elementary School has been awarded a Vibrant Communities Grant from the Georgia Council for the Arts, supporting innovative arts across the state. These grants fund a variety of initiatives, including murals, artist residencies, school performances, community theater productions, festivals, and concerts. 

Austin Road Elementary will use the grant to bring its project, "Art in Orbit: Exploring Space Through STEAM," to life through a school-wide artist residency and collaborative mural project. The grant was secured through the efforts of STEAM Teacher Andrea Rowe, who envisioned an experience that blends creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning.  

Professional artist Heidi Hensley will work with students in Pre-K through 5th grade to create a space-themed school mural for everyone to enjoy. The project will integrate STEAM, art, and math, giving students opportunities to engage in meaningful, hands-on lessons. 

Hensley will guide student learning throughout the residency and incorporate student-created elements into the final mural. STEAM Teacher Andrea Rowe will coordinate the project alongside the school's Art Teacher, Courtney Smith, and Math Lab Teacher, Amanda Severt. 

This project is meaningful because every student will have the opportunity to play a role in bringing the mural to life.  

The Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) works to strengthen Georgia's arts industry and support communities by providing access to meaningful art experiences. 

Congratulations to Austin Road Elementary on this achievement!