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Raa Middle

Respect for Academics and the Arts

Fine & Visual Art Program

The Fine Art Program at Raa Middle School allows students an opportunity to explore various art media and techniques used to create a wide variety of 2D and 3D artworks. Students develop skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media collage, and sculpture. Students practice, sketch, and manipulate the structural elements of art. Investigation of artwork from Western and non-Western cultures provides a means for students to expand their understanding and appreciation of the role of art in a global culture. Student artists gain skills in communication and the use of the art criticism process to evaluate, explain, and measure artistic growth in personal and group works. This program incorporates hands-on activities and the consumption of art materials. Fine Art students also have the opportunity to have artworks on display in on-campus gallery spaces, Arts events, community events and competitions, as well as our end-of-the-year Art Show.

Information for Parents

Students are not required to purchase materials thanks to the District Arts Allocation, which provides extra funding for Arts programs to ensure all students have access to the Arts. Donations of certain materials are always welcome: magazines, newspapers, paint, pencils, and picture frames for displaying artwork. We are always looking to add more 12x15, 16x20, and 18x24 frames in any color or style.


Course Progression and Information

  • M/J 2D Studio Art 1 (Beginning)
    • Students explore the fundamentals of two-dimensional art, including drawing, painting, and design. They learn basic techniques, elements of art, and principles of design while experimenting with various media to build foundational skills and creative expression.

  • M/J 2D Studio Art 2 (Intermediate)

    • Students expand on prior knowledge by refining technical skills and exploring more complex concepts in composition, color theory, and personal style. They work with diverse media and processes to create original artworks that demonstrate growth in craftsmanship and creativity.

  • High School 2D Studio Art 1 (Advanced)

    • Students engage in advanced techniques and conceptual development, focusing on personal voice and portfolio-quality work. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, problem-solving, and mastery of media, preparing students for higher-level art courses or college programs.


Why should I join the Fine Arts/Visual Arts Program at Raa Middle School?

Students should join our Fine Art Program if they have an interest in Art because we nurture creativity and artistic expression. Students have the opportunity to bring their interests into their art and create pieces that express themselves. Students learn to use a wide range of art media, which allows them to make more informed decisions about the design process. Fine Art students are active members of the Raa campus with artworks routinely on display, live art at Arts Events, opportunities to participate in art competitions, the Raa Art Show, and help with set design and production for the yearly Raa Musical.

Program Highlights & Awards

  • Winter Festival Youth Arts Exhibition- numerous winners (2025, 2nd Place, Middle School, most recent)
  • LCS Middle School Exhibition at the Foster Tanner Gallery- numerous winners
  • Community Art Competitions- numerous winners
  • Community Art Collaboration with the 621 Gallery- 2021
  • COCA Arts Education Grant awardee 2021-22- Printmaking-focused grant
  • COCA Arts Education Grant awardee 2022-23- Mosaic focused grant
  • COCA Arts Education Grant awardee 2023-24- Bookmaking-focused grant
  • COCA Arts Education Grant awardee 2024-25- Cyanotyping & Photography
  • COCA Arts Education Grant awardee 2025-26- Ceramics & Mixed Media Sculpture
  • Capitol Chalk Walk design team participants
  • FSU Art Education Program collaborations
  • Annual Raa Art Show

Meet The Art Teacher

RAA Middle School Fine & Performing Arts Magnet logo featuring a ram.Mrs. Katie Aylward-Smith

Katie Aylward-Smith has served as the Fine Art Instructor at Raa Middle School for 13 years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art from Florida State University and is one semester away from completing her Master’s degree in Art Education. Mrs. Aylward-Smith actively collaborates with Florida State University’s Art Education program by hosting pre-service art education students in her classroom. In addition to teaching Fine Art courses, she serves as the Arts Department Chair, Yearbook Club sponsor, and Backstage Director for the Raa Musical. Passionate about fostering creativity, Mrs. Aylward-Smith enjoys guiding students as they explore diverse art media and discover what inspires their own artistic expression.

 

    • Art has really helped me develop my style and perfect certain skills. - Bryce
    • You should join Raa Art so you can branch and grow your creativity, and express it through your art. - Kingston
    • Art is great. It allows an opportunity to unleash your potential creatively. - Harper
    • The Art program helps you express yourself and explore new things. - Tessa
    • I have learned so many new art techniques and styles. My mind is always flying with new creative ideas! - Aaron
    • Raa's art program has allowed me to work with fancy art supplies. Plus Ms. Aylward is the best art teacher in the county! - Harper
    • You get to be as creative as you would like, and you get to try all kinds of new materials and techniques that you may never have known existed. - Ashlyn
    • I took a beginning Art class last year for the first time. I have learned a lot. Art is more fun and interesting than I imagined. I am enjoying taking more Art this year! - Mar'kuan
    • I have enjoyed the variety of projects we have done and the materials that we have used. Ms. Aylward is great too. - Eden
    • There are so many reasons why you should choose Art at Raa. Promoting self-expression, developing creativity, and supportive in growing individual art styles. You learn more about art and get better at it. Plus it is fun - Sophie