Meet Yvonne, a retired elementary school teacher with LAUSD, with thirty-five years of classroom experience. “I would routinely bring in normally discarded materials for students to use in art projects; so I’ve found my niche in retirement, as a volunteer at Rediscover. Once again I get to see children joyously exercising their creativity, and their enthusiasm is infectious. They get excited about art, because it taps into an essential part of their development. When students use materials in unexpected ways, they engage in a type of problem solving in which there are many possible solutions. They must make choices, in order to complete their project.

Having early art opportunities can strengthen brain development. I’d seen improved and enhanced academic performance in my own students, with regular art sessions. Skills can be fostered and carried through a lifetime. Student artwork at Rediscover is always unpredictable and unique; and I’m always looking forward to seeing what these budding artists will come up with. The studio is brimming with every imaginable material, so they have many exciting possibilities. Rediscover is a treasure trove to all who participate; and I’m very happy to be a part of this wonderful community.”