Our Philosophy

The West Mifflin High School Art Department views art instruction as an integral part of the
curriculum. We believe that a discipline-based art program can improve the quality of a student’s
work in other subject areas. The knowledge gained from participating in art courses promotes
higher-level thinking skills and provides opportunities for creative self-expression. A sequential
art program develops basic skills, encourages visual awareness and is fundamental to intellectual
growth and creative self-expression. The art program accommodates different learning styles. It
enables each student to develop positive attitudes toward self, others and the environment
through creative experiences. Through structured course work, which includes knowledge of
artists, art principles and elements, and educated critiques, students will be exposed to broad
ideas and learn appreciation for cultures from around the world. Assignments that involve
problem-solving and creative learning help the student to relate visual knowledge to other
subjects and to foster originality, appreciation, flexibility and imagination. The department
presents projects as visual problems to be solved, and does not desire "cookie-cutter" outcomes.
The use and application of skills, processes and mediums encourages self-expression, creative
growth, and discovery. The courses require constant decision-making on the part of the student,
demand high standards of student achievement, and instill in the pupil respect for art as a
discipline. Assessment is made on individual achievement related to each student’s stage of
growth and development. The art program is sequential and cumulative enabling knowledge,
aesthetic judgments, skills and abilities to be strengthened