Exploring Possibilities

UrbanFUTURE students at Mann Elementary are getting a chance to go out and explore careers in their community. So far this year, Mann explorers have researched careers in art and law. In January the group visited an art gallery and learned first-hand from a local artist. Craig Downs is a self-taught artist who has spent the past seven years creating a bold and unique style to call his own - he also happens to be an UrbanFUTURE mentor! Craig was kind enough to invite the Explore! Club to Urban Eats (3301 Meramec St.) for a personal showing of his paintings. The students were also given a chance to create their own masterpieces using Craig's paintings as inspiration. Their artwork will be displayed at the local Hartford Coffee Company (3974 Hartford St.). Lloserf, a 5th grade student at Mann had this to say about Explore!, "I think Explore! Club is fun and interesting. I liked going to see my mentor, Craig. I learned to be a great artist you have to keep trying and trying."

Explore Club also had the opportunity to visit the Old Court House where they reenacted the Virginia Minor Trial and learned about women's suffrage. Students had the opportunity to learn about the specific roles and responsibilities of lawyers, judges and juries. They also learned about the constitutional amendements that afford U.S. citizens a fair and speedy trial.

In March, students are exploring careers in law enforcement. Last Friday they had a chance to visit a police station to learn about the different roles of police officers. Keep exploring those possibilities!