Projects for Simon Youth Foundation students spread cheer in and out of the classroom

The Academy works to decorate
its mall tree display

Students at the Simon Youth Phase 4 Learning Center Academy in West Mifflin, Penn., are helping bring holiday cheer to their community with displays at the Century III Mall, which is where the non-traditional high school, supported by Simon Youth Foundation and Phase 4 Learning Center, is located.

As part of the school’s new art curriculum, students have designed Christmas ornaments and decorations for a 12-foot tree display inside the mall. The project provides the school’s at-risk students a welcome outlet for personal expression.

“Some children need to put their thoughts down somewhere other than to a counselor or in a journal – art is that place, it’s my serenity so to speak,” says student Jesse Ribich. “Many artists in history have had something wrong with them, but they all became very successful because of their art.”

Academy students with
their Halloween diplays

Earlier in 2011, students used acrylics to paint gourds and pumpkins for a Halloween display at the mall. Laura Marsico directs the art classes at the school, and she says art projects help students build a range of skills.

“A completed work of art is something students can be proud of, and the creative process builds confidence and a sense of self worth,” Marsico says.

Phase 4 Learning Center Director Terrie Suica-Reed says that the school plans to continue offering its arts program in future semesters to the benefit of students and the mall.

“We are happy this program is positively impacting our students as well as the community, because it helps mall visitors enjoy the holiday spirit,” Sucia-Reed says.