Weaving Creativity, Culture, and Environmental Awareness at J.W. Ray

(Dallas, TX) — In Carla Renteria’s classroom at Personalized Learning Preparatory at J.W. Ray, art is more than a creative outlet; it is a way for students to connect with one another, learn new skills, and raise awareness about issues in the world around them.

With support from a Heart of Teaching grant from the Dallas Education Foundation, Carla launched Art Club: Create to Connect, an interdisciplinary project that blends art, science, and environmental awareness. In art club, students are creating a large-scale woven art piece using recycled plastic bags to bring attention to ocean pollution.

Inspired by traditional Mayan weaving techniques, the project introduces students to an ancient art form while encouraging environmental responsibility. Instead of using yarn, students weave with plastic bags, transforming everyday waste into a meaningful work of art. The finished piece will be displayed at Dallas City Hall during Earth Month, allowing students to share their message with the broader community.

“This is a great way for students to learn a new skill and connect in our art club,” Carla shared. “But I think it’s really special because we’re teaching kids to be more environmentally focused and have that awareness.”

The project is also deeply collaborative. Carla partnered with science teacher Chris Venable to connect the art-making process to lessons about the environment. Together, they reinforced key concepts around pollution and sustainability, helping students see how art and science work together beyond the classroom.

Because third through fifth graders at J.W. Ray do not receive art during the regular school day, the club holds particular significance. It provides students with the valuable opportunity to be creative, express themselves, and build community around shared interests.

One student described the experience simply and enthusiastically:
“I really like doing art because it’s one of my favorite things in the whole entire world.”

That excitement grew when students learned their work would be displayed publicly. For many, it was the first time their creativity would be shared beyond their school.

“I feel really happy and I feel really excited because everyone is going to see all of our artwork,” one student shared.

For Carla, moments like these are exactly why the project matters. “Art can change the world,” she said. “It can spread these positive messages.”

When the woven installation is displayed at Dallas City Hall during Earth Month, students will see the impact of their work as their message about protecting our oceans is shared with the wider community. Through Art Club: Create to Connect, they are learning that art is not separate from the real world, but a powerful way to share ideas, honor culture, and speak up about issues that matter to them.

Projects like Carla’s are possible because of the community that believes in Dallas ISD educators and the students they serve. Support from the Dallas Education Foundation gives teachers the flexibility to turn meaningful ideas into real learning experiences that students remember long after the project ends.

“I just want to say thank you so much for giving us this opportunity,” Carla shared. “We have just been having a great time in our art club.”

Help shape what’s next for Dallas ISD students.

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