WEA hosts Art Build to support public schools on April 15-17

BURIEN — The Washington Education Association, Highline EA, Seattle EA and Federal Way EA are hosting the first Art Build in the Pacific Northwest to amplify their advocacy for students, schools, educators and public education. This fun event, which is open to all union members and community supporters of quality public schools, will be from Friday, April 15 to Sunday, April 17 at Highline High School, 225 S. 152nd St. in Burien. A large space, both inside and outside, has been set aside at this brand new building for maximum air flow and physical distancing. RSVP to attend.

What’s an Art Build?

Over the years, the Milwaukee-based Art Build Workers (ABW) has organized educators around the country inspiring art builds, such as parachute banners that underscore educators’ commitment to racial and social justice and inspirational posters that highlight the need for great public schools for every student. The WEA and its affiliates are passionate that students, families and educators get the mental health and academic supports they deserve, especially during the ongoing pandemic. Amid a national educator shortage, we need to retain the caring, dedicated educators who serve them. This event is an opportunity to use art to amplify the messages about the thriving, supported schools that our students deserve.

Students, parents, grandparents and guardians, neighbors, community and educators are all invited to attend and make art for public education with the support of professional artists. You do not need to have any artistic talent to attend; there are plenty of roles for all, including paint-by-numbers, sign-making, stapling, making custom posters, and more. Plus, there will be FREE food truck meals for all participants! RSVP here.

Here is the schedule:

●  Friday, April 15 from 5 to 9 p.m. (Food truck: Yummy Box Asian Fusion!)
●  Saturday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.m (Food trucks: Kiss My Grits and Gourmini’s Italian!)
●  Sunday, April 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Food trucks: El Grand Taco and Carver Kitchen Gyro and Shawarma!)

Special guests will include WEA President Larry Delaney, NEA Executive Commitee Member Hanna Vaandering, Washington State Rep. Jamila Taylor, and WEA LGBTQ Caucus leadership Anna and Joe. WEA Black Caucus Chair Vallerie Fisher will be on-site participating.

Here is a short video from a previous event in Los Angeles to show some of the activities and power of an Art Build: