Cross Creek Charter Academy Scholars Step into the Spotlight at Grand Rapids Art Museum

In February, more than 100 Cross Creek Charter Academy students didn’t just learn about what it’s like to be an artist, they became one.

During “Art at the GRAM,” student artwork was displayed at the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), giving Cross Creek students the unforgettable experience of seeing their own creations showcased in a professional gallery.

Heidi Mitchell is the art teacher at Cross Creek and organizer of the event. She worked with the museum’s school experience manager and Cross Creek’s PTO to create this opportunity for students.

“This brings an even greater value to what students create and what they are expressing visually,” Mitchell said. “It can be quite transformative.”

That transformation is exactly why art education matters.

Art is more than just a picture; it plays an important role in learning. When students engage in the visual arts, they are strengthening fine motor skills, building empathy, and developing character. Those skills extend far beyond the art room into writing assignments, science experiments, and even math problems.

National Heritage Academies^® (NHA) believes in educating the whole child. Opportunities like “Art at the GRAM” align with the organization’s commitment to academic excellence and Moral Focus™. When students take creative risks and present their work publicly, they demonstrate courage. When they support and celebrate one another, they practice encouragement and compassion.

“Putting one’s art on display is a vulnerable act,” Mitchell said. “They are putting their hearts and visual stories out there to share. I know I am really proud of them for being so courageous.”

Scholars are excited not only to see their artwork professionally displayed, but also to share the experience with their families and school community. Walking into a museum and seeing their names next to their creations sends a powerful message that their voice and ideas matter.

“I am so excited that our school community had the opportunity to celebrate student art on a big stage like the Grand Rapids Art Museum.”

And the best part? The GRAM has already extended an invitation to participate in next year’s “Art at the GRAM!”

Congratulations to all the student artists!

Click here to see their installations.