This was the challenge students embarked on for one of our most colorful art shows, as they observed, pondered, and reconsidered the extraordinary city they call home. Third graders studied the art of map-making and created incredible pieces of three-dimensional “cartographic art” that featured pop-up versions of the city’s iconic landmarks, and highlighted the unique architecture and design of their favorite neighborhoods.

First and second graders painted portraits of “city change-makers,” from local politicians to restaurateurs (to their very own teachers!). Middle schoolers wrote and illustrated a rhyming “ABCs of San Francisco” book, each page designed by a different student; they used colorful collages and playful rhymes to chronicle everything from Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf to Lombard Street and the SF Zoo.

The art exhibit reflected not only the color and energy of this incredible city, but the pride and love our community had for their urban environment. While art can often be global or universal in nature, it’s important for students to develop and express their connection to their immediate surrounding