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Posted on by Natalie.Rowan

Building community connections through art: grant provides opportunity for student artwork to be displayed in the Stillwater Public Library

Twelve frames hanging on a wall containing student artwork.

Stillwater Elementary students are now renowned artists in their local community thanks to art teacher Heidi Giebel and the Innovative Educator grant from Broadview Federal Credit Union (FCU).

Plaque that reads "display made possible by Broadview Federal Credit Union." School Enrichment Program. Innovative Educator Grant.
This plaque hangs next to the art display in the Stillwater Public Library.

The grant – which Mrs. Giebel was awarded in April of 2023 – is offered to classroom teachers who partner with the credit union for curriculum enrichment, experiential education, hands-on learning and innovative programs that benefit students. Prior to applying for the grant, Mrs. Giebel approached Stillwater Elementary Principal Rebecca Toleman about doing an art installation that connects students to the local community. Principal Toleman proposed working with the Stillwater Public Library, and Mrs. Giebel contacted the library’s director, Sara Kipp, to make the idea a reality.

While the public library was undergoing renovations, Mrs. Giebel had her students create art specifically for the installation. Once the renovations were complete, Mrs. Giebel used the twelve frames provided by the Innovative Educator grant to hang student artwork and design a captivating display. Mrs. Giebel plans to update the display with new pieces every one to two months, which will also include artwork from Stillwater Middle School and Stillwater High School, providing all students in the district the opportunity to see their creations in a public setting.

Twelve frames of student artwork hanging on the wall in the library.

“Our students are over the top excited to see their art hanging in the public library which goes along with my vision of creating connections between our students making their art at school and being able to see it displayed in their own community!” said Mrs. Giebel.

The Stillwater Central School District art display is located on the first floor of the Education Room of the public library and can be viewed year-round.