Gracias San Antonio: Children Are Citizens Project is grounded in the belief that children are not just future citizens but also citizens of the city in the here and now, with the right to express their opinions and participate in the civic and cultural life of San Antonio. As citizens of the community, children also learn to become active contributors to making their city a better place to work, play, and live.
The success of the 2022-23 program is proof positive that the enthusiasm, engagement, and creativity of 3- and 4-year-olds at Pre-K 4 SA are making a difference to all citizens in San Antonio.
November 2022: Election
Pre-K 4 SA children voted in a school-wide election to support the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving children affected by the loss of a loved one. The center supports thousands of children, caregivers, and community members every year through ongoing support groups, individual and family counseling, and professional education and training programs.
December 2022: City Explorations
Children and families learned more about San Antonio and drew creative inspiration from visits to locations such as Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair, Denman Estate Park, Brackenridge Park, the Japanese Tea Garden, San Antonio Museum of Art, Ruby City, Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s Lights of Esperanza, Muertos Fest, Woodlawn Lake, Semmes Library, the San Antonio Botanical Garden, the Museum Reach of the San Antonio Riverwalk, Landa Library, and the University of the Incarnate Word. Pumpkin patches were also a big hit this year!
January – February 2023: Creating Art
This year, 16 local artists with varying styles and techniques joined our children in classrooms to help them make unique works of art that reflect the energy and inspiration they gained from their explorations. Paintings, collages, sculptures, drawings, textiles, mosaics, and mixed media works were among the 112 pieces created.
April – May 2023: Exhibit, Auction, Reception
Pre-K 4 SA children’s artworks were exhibited in an online auction for two weeks, with all proceeds benefiting the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas. The energy was electric! Winning bids ranged from $2-$200 showing our community’s enthusiasm for our children’s creativity, support for the mission of the Gracias project, and proof of the positive impact that civic engagement can make.
June 2023: Donation Presentation
Pre-K 4 SA was pleased to present a donation of $6,536 to the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas. The organization will use the funds to add, adapt, and enhance its programs to fully meet the growing needs of children and families living with grief.
Thank You
This year’s Gracias San Antonio: Children Art Citizens project was a success thanks to the generosity of the artists, family, and friends who believe in our cause. We are truly fortunate to have your support in developing our young children’s love of art, exploration, and learning.
