Pathways brings arts learning to after school

The Pathways Afterschool Program is continuing to inspire creativity and hands-on learning for local students, now in its third successful year. Pathways represents a partnership between the Johnson County Center for the Arts, local schools, and the community center. The program is funded through a grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission and provides students with unique access to professional artists and musicians. Open to students of all ability levels, the program creates an inclusive and supportive environment where creativity can thrive. Each session is led by a skilled teaching artist, with an experienced classroom teacher present to ensure a structured and positive learning experience. This year, students have explored a wide variety of artistic mediums. Jason Hughes introduced leatherworking, guiding participants in crafting their own change purses and bookmarks. In ceramics, Tara Belk shared her tile glazing process, while Paige Janeri led students in creating festive clay jack-o-lanterns during the fall season. Sherree Schmees worked with students in theater presence teaching students how to project their voice clearly and share stories through pantomime. Painting instruction has also been a highlight, with Jacob Proffitt teaching acrylic techniques and Lewis Chapman helping students discover the expressive possibilities of watercolor. Music is an important part of the program as well. Marie-Jo Thum brings her harp into the classroom, teaching students about the instrument's history, musical notes, and technique. Students even have the opportunity to try playing the harp themselves-an experience many would not otherwise have access to explore. The program is coordinated by Carol Hieronymus, who has helped expand Pathways into a vibrant and impactful arts education initiative for the community. "I really appreciate Johnson County Schools for allowing the Pathways program "Discover Your Talent" to bring artistic expression to the students in the afterschool programs and the artists' willingness to share their talents with the youth of Johnson County," says Carol. To celebrate the students' hard work, an art show will be held at the Johnson County Center for the Arts, showcasing pieces created throughout the program. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, April 3 from 4 to 6 p.m., and will include several hands-on activities for attendees. Students and their families are encouraged to attend and celebrate their accomplishments. In addition to Pathways participants, any youth artist age 18 or under is invited to submit work for the exhibition. Artwork must be dropped off by Tuesday, March 24 at 5 p.m. Through programs like Pathways, the arts continue to play a vital role in education-encouraging creativity, building confidence, and connecting students with new opportunities for self-expression.