With the 1st nine weeks starting students begin to explore extracurricular activities to participate in and have options such as student government, beta club, HOSA, academic club, and many more. While all giving students valuable experience and opportunity an alternative possibility for students that can give the ability to connect with our community through art is NAHS.
McCracken offers many types of art classes such as Art 1 and 2, Drawing and Painting 1 and 2, Metal Smithing 1 and 2, graphic design, digital design 1 and 2, independent studio, AP Studio, photography, sculpture, pottery, and jewelry making. A large variety for students to consider for schedules to help express themselves artistically. Some students when asked if they would consider taking art classes expressed their skepticism and concerns about how art would be important for them in their high school and future careers. Mr. Kimball an art instructor here at McCracken voices his opinion that
“Out of all the classes you take at McCracken the core classes are really important and those are the ones we are trained to focus on. Like we’ve gotta be good at math but not everyone’s good at math. Two plus two equals four, but in the art world there’s an infinite number of answers, and for me, I think it’s exciting for students to find their own answer to their problems.”
He states that taking art classes in high school can truly give students a creative outlet that is important no matter who you are. Students may talk to Mrs. Green, Mrs. Stamper, or Mr . Kimball if they are interested in art classes and have questions
For students who are already interested in art, NAHS can be a helpful resource to help develop your presence in the art community. It has been a part of McCracken High School for five years now and its effect can be seen throughout the murals in the gym and throughout Paducah’s community. In Mrs. Stamper’s words, NAHS represents “Service through art”. NAHS is sponsored by Mrs. Stamper but is a student-run organization. Mrs stamper states
“Many students don’t have experience with organizing and management so I can help guide them into leadership.”
NAHS meets on the first Wednesday of every month and officers also meet on the last Wednesday of the month. Meetings are also offered virtually for students who can not attend in person. While applications have closed for the year, next year students may apply through the QR code on the bulletin board in the ag hallway or through the google classroom you can get from the art teachers. The application will require a 2.5 GPA and you do not need to have former art credits to join.
Recently NAHS has been seen in the cafeteria and at football games painting faces as a fundraiser giving members preparation for future ones. Such as painting windows at Christmas time downtown and ornament painting. NAHS also attends elementary schools to help get young kids interested and involved in art. 
In recently joined member Deleany Green(10th) NAHS,
“A club to build a stronger community between artists and incorporate art locally.”When asked why she joined she says she loves art and that, ‘“Art is what makes us human…It’s such a great way for expression and such a great way to express things you can’t always show with words.”
NAHS gives students a is a way to express themselves artistically and creatively through volunteer hours and is an amazing way to connect with your community. Students who are considering the possibility of taking an art class or show skepticism towards it can take a look around their environment and realize the positive impact it makes and the impact they themselves could make by getting involved.
