Teacher uses football, art and a grant to capture her students’ attention

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Margo Melson had an idea. 

The Chapel Hill teacher in Wayne Township wanted to provide her students with a creative educational experience. She started with a New York Times Best Seller, The Other Wes Moore. The book details two kids who took two different paths in life. The chapters talk about choices and consequences, and even triumphs. 

Melson is using that book to help students create a portrait they aspire to become. To accomplish this goal, she reached out to Kevin West, an artist who has created a concept called paint by number. West’s company is called Image 2 Art. 

Here is how it will work. A picture is sent to West, using technology he will place the image on a canvass, and then the students can use various colors to paint the picture.   

Melson wanted 195 students to have that experience; however, she didn’t have the funds. So, she applied for a grant through the Big Ten College Football Playoff Foundation. After the grant process, Melson received notification she would receive a  $6,000 grant. 

“I wasn’t sure how this would work, then the Big Ten grant came up,” said Melson. 

Now she is moving forward, on Dec.10 and 11, 195 students will be able to paint portraits. 

“When Margo said 195 students, that is hands down the biggest event we have ever done,” said West. ” When the Lord pours out a blessing, he pours it all the way out.” 

Fourteen other teachers in the state of Indiana received similar grants through the same foundation. All fifteen teachers were recognized at the Big Ten Championship Football game at Lucas Oil. 

If you would like to find out more about the Image to Art click here. You can also learn more about the grant right here.