“Created to Create”: SPFA Students Shine at Learning Through the Arts Evening

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, the halls of St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary School were transformed into a vibrant celebration of student creativity and learning during their annual Learning Through the Arts evening. This year’s theme, "Created to Create", captured the spirit of the event perfectly—highlighting the deep connection between artistic expression, academic growth, and faith.

Now in its third year, the evening welcomed families and community members into the school to explore a stunning collection of student artwork and live performances. From individual creations to collaborative class projects, students from all grade levels proudly showcased their artistic journeys. Displays included mosaics, pottery, crafts, and a wide variety of visual art that reflected months of thoughtful instruction, experimentation, and creativity.

Principal Kathy Jones-Husch emphasized the unique learning opportunities that come with being part of a fine arts school.

"This festival gives the kids a chance to celebrate all of the arts learning that they've done throughout the year," said Jones-Husch. "We really want the children to have a chance to showcase their work and receive feedback on how their art makes others feel."

The evening culminated in a series of live performances from Grades 4 to 6, featuring a French folk song, a high-energy Orff and drumming ensemble, and four musical numbers from Annie! The Musical. These performances were more than just entertainment—they were a reflection of the school’s commitment to quality teaching and student-centered learning.

At the heart of "Created to Create" was the school’s belief in the value of the creative process.

"A big piece of being a fine arts school is focusing on creativity—not just the final product, but the experimentation, the play, the revisions," Jones-Husch explained. "We recognize that all kids can excel, and the arts are a great way to make space for that excellence."

Faith was also woven throughout the evening. Several pieces drew direct inspiration from religious themes, including a powerful Grade 6 piece depicting the 40 days of Lent and Jesus’ journey—a moving example of how SPFA integrates Catholic values into all areas of learning.

Jones-Husch praised the dedication and innovation of the school’s teaching staff for making evenings like this possible.

"The kids have these opportunities because of the work that their teachers do," she said. "They find new ways for students to express themselves and take creative risks. We simply couldn’t do this without them."

"Created to Create" was not only a celebration of the arts but a powerful demonstration of how quality teaching can empower every student to explore, reflect, and grow—both as learners and as individuals made in the image of a creative God.