I am Deanne Norman, and have been the art specialist at Crockett Elementary since 2000. The art program allows students to understand and interpret the visual world in which they live and express themselves visually. They also become aware and sensitive to the world around them by exploring and using their multi-sensory experiences, such as hearing, touching, and seeing to help them identify the elements of design and principles of art. The students also learn to appreciate art through historical and cultural relationships, interdisciplinary connections, and problem-solving. By studying art, students learn to analyze, evaluate and compare. Art also promotes creativity, self-esteem, and self-expression. Overall, the four components the art program promotes are Aesthetic Perception, Art Criticism, Art History and Culture, Art Production and Creative Expression.