Transforming Space Through Arts Education - P371K x Fanm Djanm

'Transforming Space Through Art Education' is a project initiated by Natalie Trainor, a teacher at P371K. Natalie ran a successful crowdfunding campaign + art silent auction to raise money that now funds programs to bring art to underprivileged students in Sunset Park, BK. Projects so far have included murals for students to get involved, with the help of prominent NYC street artists, and photography workshops. P371K seeks to use the transformative power of art to improve student behavior and overall school climate. Their goal is to establish and maintain a safe and supportive school, a community that promotes positive academic achievement, and social emotional competence in order for students to become productive members of society. 

The most recent project was a day with Fanm Djanm (which means "strong woman" in Haitian Kreyol) -- a Harlem-based company run by Paola Mathe, which champions girl empowerment. Paola came to P371K for a day to talk to the girls about strength, and workshop how to style her signature head wraps.

Projects like these come at a time when both public education and funding for the arts are coming under attack and we applaud women like Natalie and Paola for taking initiative within our communities.

Read more about Paola Mathe in this week's NY Times

Filmed & submitted by Claire Dub