When Mexico Middle School launched its new student club, more than 40 students flocked to the first meeting, excited to explore their creative sides.

“I’ve always wanted to learn to crochet, and my friends were going to be there, too,” shared sixth-grader Trinity Swon.

The club, an idea from MMS Art Teacher Ali Pemberton, provides sixth graders with a much-needed extracurricular option, as they’re not yet eligible for MSHSAA athletics or may be in a music class offered at the same time as art.

“Mr. Louder approached me with the idea to start an art club. I knew there were many students in the school that loved art and wanted to learn new things. Art is an emotional outlet for many kids, and I am so excited to give them a space to be themselves!” Ms. Pemberton shared.

Regina Johnson, MMS C2C site coordinator, highlighted the club’s impact. “We started with 20 sign-ups, but word spread, and attendance doubled. It’s a wonderful school and community project.”

The overwhelming response to the first meeting was impactful for students like Jonah Robinette. “I like to help everyone,” said Jonah. “Art Club is such a fun experience.”

MMS Art Club was made possible with the Volunteer Generation Grant and the Full Service Community Schools grant from C2C. District C2C partners, DeAnn Gould and Regina Johnson, helped the club gather supplies to fuel six-week cycles of art projects, starting with crochet and progressing to watercolor, clay sculpture, and more.

To mark the club’s launch, the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce brought its iconic oversized ribbon-cutting scissors - or very large Art Club scissors! Chamber Director Dana Keller shared, “We know kids who participate in extracurricular activities show improved attendance. We love to see MMS and C2C bring this opportunity to MMS.”

Art Club meets on Wednesdays after school. Students can join anytime, and volunteers are welcome to lend a hand, following district volunteer procedures.