Eighth grade students mentored fifth grade students in the use of graphics software [GIMP (freeware Photoshop equivalent)] to create digital art based on Grade 5 Science content.

The students learned how to use the software from Tom R. Chambers, Technology Applications teacher. They used the software this semester of this school year to make digital art for a project about bullying.

Chambers takes student engagement and empowerment so seriously that most of what is learned and produced transcends the classroom to have an impact. As a result, his students are motivated to do more, and in this case, they became mentors for students at the RYSS Primary Academy.

This mentorship process involved an intensive session of learning/practicing, and project application to make digital art. The RYSS eighth grade students succeeded in not only keeping the attention of the fifth grade students, but also making them comfortable with the software and producing gratifying results. The two groups were so engaged throughout the session that the teachers present during the process seemed secondary. The RYSS students had successfully gained a skill, and were empowered to convey what they knew to others.

Photographs follow to indicate the degree of activity and working relationship between the RYSS students: