On a brisk Sunday morning, North and South High School Art Departments hosted its first collaborative community art project.
The planning began in the Spring of 2025 with October 12, 2025, as the official event date. High school art students designed and carved the majority of the 3/4 inch wood panels. The carving process took over 100+ hours between both schools. For most students, they had experience with the reduction relief cut method and were familiar with the printmaking process. It is essential to provide students with varied art experiences that continue to shape their appreciation, understanding, and engagement for the creative process and collaboration.
We were excited to bring this to the high school level so that our community can experience the art of printmaking using a 3-foot roller. In addition, encouraging attendees to try making their own linoleum and lego print.
A BIG thank you to our art teachers and the National Art Honor Society members.
The event would not be possible without the support of North administration, Michael Lubach, Ben Gasper, Ampersand Supply Co, Sargento, and The Thai Express Food Truck.
This event was supported by a grant from the Sheboygan Area School Distict and Utely Education Foundation.
Proceeds from the sale of the prints go towards both art programs.
Photo: Pat Ryan
In Action
Photos by Pat Ryan
In the Press
Sheboygan Sun | Sheboygan North and South students collaborate on steamroller printmaking event.
Sheboygan, WI – North and South High School Art Departments are excited to announce a community art event called “Steamroller Printmaking Event.” The event will consist of a 3-foot roller, creating large-scale prints that were carved out of wood. All wood carvings were hand-carved by North & South art students. During the event, there will be a make & take area where people can make their own prints and buy lunch from the Thai Express food truck.
This event is popular across our state, hosted by art institutions. On October 12th, we will bring this to the high school level. It is going to be a great opportunity to offer this to our students, staff, families, and the general public to experience and enjoy.
The Steamroller Printmaking Event is open to the public. FREE.
This event is supported by a grant from the Utely Education Foundation and Sheboygan Area School District.
If you go:
Steamroller Printmaking Event
North High West Parking Lot, 12th and School Avenue, Sheboygan 53083
Sunday, October 12th, 10 am – 2 pm.
All large-scale prints will be available for purchase by donation. Proceeds go toward both art departments.
Student teacher Ms. Ellefson and cooperating teacher Mr. Juárez
As I wrap up my time at this high school placement, it’s hard to believe how much I’ve grown since I first stepped into the art classroom. When I began, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves, eager to connect with students and share my passion but uncertain about the best ways to bring out their creativity and confidence. Now, after weeks of planning, teaching, and learning from my students and colleagues, I can genuinely say I’ve come into my own as a teacher.
One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed in myself is my confidence in the classroom. At the start, I was so focused on following my lesson plans to the letter, afraid of deviating too much in case I lost control of the room or didn’t cover everything. But as the weeks passed, I learned to trust my instincts and adapt to my students’ needs on the fly. I became comfortable with the ebb and flow of each class, recognizing when to let them experiment freely and when to step in with guidance. This flexibility allowed me to connect with my students on a deeper level and encourage their individual artistic voices. I’m so grateful for this shift because it’s made teaching feel more like a collaboration than a one-way street.
Another highlight has been the incredible support and warmth from the staff. The teachers here have been so welcoming, always willing to offer advice, share resources, or just listen when I needed to talk through a lesson. Their kindness has not only made my transition smoother but has also shown me the power of a supportive teaching community. It’s reassuring to know that there are people who genuinely want to see me succeed and have taken the time to help me grow. I was lucky enough to work with a co-operating teacher that gave me the space to experiment with my teaching style and be very supportive and thorough in his feedback and suggestions. I also was right next door to another outstanding art teacher, who was always ready to give me a boost when I needed it. Their advice, stories, and comraderie has made this experience that much more impactful to me.
And, of course, I’ve made so many fun memories with the students! From their creative ideas to the unexpected classroom jokes, these moments have brought so much joy to my experience. Watching students discover new techniques or see them light up when their artwork turns out better than they expected has been beyond rewarding. The laughter and energy in our classroom are something I’ll carry with me as I move forward in my teaching career.
Leaving this placement is bittersweet. I’m excited about what comes next, but I’ll miss the students, the staff, and the daily rhythm we’ve built together. This experience has taught me the value of patience, adaptability, and kindness, and I know these lessons will shape me as a teacher for years to come.
I wish Sheboygan North a great rest of their school year, and thank you again for having me!
nhsartdept.com 