One of the end of the marking period benchmark’s given by Ms. Dujack to her advanced art students was quite unique and interesting – it focused on the creation of a pop art portrait. The pop art movement began in the mid 1950’s and ended in the early 1970’s. As stated in the website, www.theartstory.org, pop art’s “subject matter became far from traditional “high art” themes of morality, mythology, and classic history; rather, Pop artists celebrated commonplace objects and people of everyday life… Pop art has become one of the most recognizable styles of modern art.”

Ms. Dujack’s students with an established artistic talent were instructed to paint pop art portraits of faculty members from N. A. H. S. Approximately 15 – 20 students are painting pop art portraits of teachers. Ms. Dujack stated, “I just thought this would be a fun and challenging idea for students to work on.” Ms. Dujack decided to make this benchmark a pop art assessment because pop art is more stylish. Ms. Dujack believes that all of her students will successfully complete the project with ease.

Students were able to draw their teachers as long as permission was granted. So far,  students are working on portraits of Mr. Manuppelli (Principal), Mr. Kenny (Assistant Principal), Mr. Marcantuono, Mr. Zukatus and Mrs. Tomko – just to name a few. It’s important to note that Ms. Dujack is also completing a portrait of Mrs. Puorro – Director of Guidance.  Overall, it seems this art benchmark has truly evolved into a really great success!