Meet the Masters included everything we needed: VAPA-aligned lessons, art history, and supplies we could purchase for each lesson. Our students had never had formalized art education before Prop 28 funding allowed us to hire art teachers. We both used Meet the Masters decades ago as students ourselves, and we knew it aligned with state standards, had informative artist biographies, and shared techniques with even the youngest learners. Students look forward to art time each week, and parents have commented on how much their children love the lessons.
Fruitvale School District
Bakersfield, California
At a Glance
Fruitvale School District serves approximately 3,000 students across 5 elementary schools in Bakersfield, California. Before implementing Meet the Masters, students had no formal art curriculum. With Prop 28 funding, the district hired two art teachers who both remembered using MTM as students themselves and recommended it for their new elementary art program.
Key Metrics
Implemented at all schools in district.
5
Schools in District
3000
Students Enrolled in District
Before Meet the Masters
Fruitvale had no formal art education program for elementary students before Prop 28 funding became available. The district needed a comprehensive curriculum that aligned with California VAPA standards, included substantive art history and artist biographies, and taught real techniques to young learners.
They wanted something proven and trusted that would work for all elementary grades without requiring teachers to build lessons from scratch.
What They Received
Meet the Masters provided Fruitvale with complete VAPA-aligned lessons covering art history, artist biographies, and hands-on technique instruction. The program came with all the supplies needed for each lesson, eliminating the need for teachers to source materials separately. The curriculum worked seamlessly across all elementary grade levels, from kindergarten through fifth grade, with age-appropriate difficulty levels built into every artist unit.
Benefits of Meet the Masters
Students Actually Look Forward to Art Class
Students eagerly anticipate art time each week. One parent said her daughter insisted on buying t-shirts, book bags, and anything with Starry Night printed on it after studying Van Gogh. Another student complained about missing art to attend a good-behavior reward activity.
Parents Notice the Difference at Home
A parent mentioned her daughter pointed out texture on a shirt at Target, explaining “We’re learning about that in art.” Teachers regularly receive artwork students created at home after MTM lessons, including beautiful still lifes inspired by Frida Kahlo.
Students Who Struggled with Art Gain Confidence
Students who were hesitant about art the first year dove in with much more confidence the second year. Special education students who mainstream during art time engage similarly to general education students, creating an inclusive creative environment for everyone.
Would They Recommend Meet the Masters?
“Yes! It teaches students about significant contributions from various artists from many countries. The lessons cover art history and techniques while giving students access to different mediums—paint, oil pastels, chalk pastels, and collage.
The program encourages parent volunteers to participate in lessons, which supports both students and teachers.
It’s a wonderful way to step into formalized art instruction without much stress.”
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Sue McNair
Sales Manager, Schools & Districts
sue@meetthemasters.com
949-215-1064