What’s new this week? PPS wants your feedback, local students’ art at the Carnegie, and upcoming fun at MuseumLab

Photo above courtesy of Woodland Hills School District.

It’s a busy season for schools and families in the Pittsburgh region. Here are updates on some of the local kid-related news and events bubbling around town:

PPS is seeking your feedback.

Superintendent Wayne N. Walters is seeking public input on the value statements that will inform tough spending decisions PPS will make to ensure equity, excellence, and efficiency. A draft of these value statements — called “design principles” were reviewed at an Education Committee Meeting in March. These statements are now being shared with the entire Pittsburgh Public Schools community via the Design Principles Survey. Take the survey here and click here for information about upcoming in-person focus groups.

“It is time that the Pittsburgh community get on the same page about what we believe the Pittsburgh Public Schools should prioritize in our service delivery to students and families,” Walters said in an announcement about the Design Principles Survey. “One of my five priority goals calls for the strategic allocation of resources to ensure equity, excellence, and efficiency. By agreeing on what we want for our students and schools, we can set a foundation for the open and transparent dialogue we must have with all stakeholders about the difficult decisions ahead.”

Woodland Hills students have their creations on display at the Carnegie Museum of Art.

The Woodland Hills Art Show includes works by students in grades K-12. Some of the artwork was created in the district’s various art classes. The art included charcoal drawings, digital representations, clay models, and other mediums, with work in a wide range of styles, from classic portraiture to surrealism. Some were created outside of school and submitted by the students. Others were created in school through group collaborations or individual projects. The Carnegie Museum of Art has showcased student artwork before, but it is believed this is the first time that it has hosted art exclusive to a single school district. The artwork will be on display to all visitors at the Carnegie through May 20.

Free Youth Night on Thursday at MuseumLab

On Thursday, May 18, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., local sixth through eighth graders are welcome to visit MuseumLab for a free evening of games, music, snacks and hands-on activities like tie-dying, making metal key chains, button making and more. Advance registration is required and can be done here. Once parents fill out the release form, they do not have to stay with their children.

Camp Kesem has space available for this summer.

Camp Kesem is an all-expenses paid week-long camp that supports children through and beyond a parent’s cancer. The camp will be held this summer from July 23-July 28 at Camp Kon-O-Kwee in Fombell, Pa. Right now, there are still a few spaces available. Families can apply online here (click “sign up,” then add your information as a “camper family”). If you have any questions about the application process or Kesem in general, e-mail the organizers here.