[ccfic caption-text format="plaintext"]
By Harry Kane
Hometown Weekly Reporter
For many, art is an important part of expressing imagination and exhibiting technical skills, but for Abby Rischin, the founder and president of the non-profit, Step Into Art, there are a multitude of reasons why creating and learning about art can encourage students to expand their horizons.
That’s why Rischin started the organization in 2005, which provides dynamic, content-rich educational programs in schools around greater Boston.
At the Rotary Club meeting in Needham on Tuesday, September 13, Rischin gave a Powerpoint presentation to the Rotarians, explaining the success she’s had over the years with her organization.
“We provide a dynamic art education program for children, focusing on the incredible resources of Boston Museum,” she said.
Since its inception, the program has reached nearly 3000 youngsters and “gives children true cultural access,” explained Rischin.
When students are at the museum, they become accustomed to the art and artists, learning history and gaining a sense of belonging.
Step Into Art offers programs that engage multiple senses and various ways of learning.
“We don’t just teach children to look at art, we literally invite them to step into art through drama activities that bring art to life, role playing, music and dance inspired by great works of art, art-making and writing,” said Rischin.
The program focuses on third and sixth graders in Dorchester, Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, East Boston and Charlestown.
The mission of the program “offers students diverse entry points for learning and self-expression as well as inspiration for future paths,” according to the website.
The Step Into Art program was launched in partnership with the Newton Mayor’s Office back in 2005. Since then, it has expanded year after year.
The programs are also successful with English language learners and kids with special needs, because they involve a multitude of active experiences from which kids can learn.
Rischin said the art programs are especially helpful for economically disadvantaged kids from indigent families who may want to be the first in their family to attend college and are inspired to do so following their participation in Step Into Art.
