With a vision for a dedicated visual arts space, Digital Harbor High School applied for and was awarded a Heart of the School Fund grant in March 2024 to transform an existing space into an inspiring arts classroom where students could more fully realize their artistic potential and engage in the creative process. 

Reflecting on the need for this award, Principal Mavis Jackson shared, 

“At Digital Harbor High School, we are excited to expand our arts program and introduce a new graduation pathway in the visual arts. As part of this growth, we recognized the need for a dedicated space that fosters creative learning. To meet this need, we transformed an existing classroom into a dynamic, hands-on environment. Our goal was to create a space where students could work comfortably with modern furniture and equipment. With the support of the Heart of the Schools award, we have successfully developed an inspiring space where students can engage fully in their artistic endeavors and thrive.” 

Providing students with a comfortable space to lay out their materials and concentrate on their creative process has created a more engaging and productive environment. 

And student artists are thriving. 

“The response from both students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive,” Principal Jackson adds.

“Students have shared that the new layout, furniture, and upgraded tools help them stay focused, collaborate more effectively, and explore new artistic techniques.” 

Reflecting on the new space, 11th grade art students shared: 
“The new tables in the art room make it way easier to spread out and focus on my projects. It finally feels like a real studio."  -Khiya 

“A comfortable and organized art room makes it easier for me to stay focused.” -London 

“There’s space to plan, sketch, and build without feeling cramped. It feels more like we’re being taken seriously as artists."  -Kahmaiyah 

We look forward to seeing how this classroom will continue to shape future artists at Digital Harbor High School for years to come!

Six times a year, the Heart of the School Fund provides grants to Baltimore City Public School principals to support projects that enhance their school buildings, their students’ learning, and their staff’s growth. To read about additional Heart of the School Fund grants, click here.