Barry University School of Social Work recently collaborated with Miami Gardens High School students to participate in an experiential arts workshop. Barry MSW students Johanna Rodriquez, Shirley Roseman, and Becky Flowers joined faculty member Dr. Heidi LaPorte and Student Services Coordinator Yvonne Alonso in working with students on the value of expressive art.
Miami Gardens High School is a tuition free charter school partnering with Academic Learning Solutions to assist non-traditional high school students between the ages of 16 and 21 to fulfill the requirements needed to obtain a high school diploma rather than obtaining a General Equivalency Diploma. The school provides a structured academic environment with individualized online instruction. Teachers provided students with the support they need to gain the credits necessary to complete high school. The principal, Ms. Porshia Jones, is deeply committed to the academic success of the students, and is also invested in them as individuals. The school has both a morning session (7:00 am – noon) and an afternoon session (12:00 pm – 5:00 pm) in order to accommodate family and work commitments of the students.
This ongoing collaboration will continue throughout the 2018-2019 Academic Year. Additionally, the School of Social Work anticipates future collaboration with other community-based partners and student internship sites that to educate and promote the meaning and value of integrative art therapy.