Special Ed Pupils' Photography Talents Unveiled At Southington High

SOUTHINGTON, CT — More than a year ago, Southington High School art teacher Sara Levinthal took a shot in the dark.

Her goal was to reach out to the school's special education students in a way that both enhances their artistic inclinations and, possibly, help them connect them with their peers.

She thought a special photography class could be the answer, but there was one obstacle. Levinthal needed cameras.

That's when she took a shot in the dark, a shot that has now brought light to a unique photography program called "Flash Friends Photography."

This is where the magic of the medium combines with these special education pupils' ambitions in awe-inspiring works of photographic art.

Last month, the Southington Board of Education hosted Levinthal and SHS special education teacher Amy Corvi for a program presentation before school officials Oct. 13.

What followed was an inspirational story that had school officials smiling during a time where leading a school district is not exactly one of the easiest endeavors amid the current climate.

Levinthal said, on a whim, she wrote to the president and chief executive officer of Canon Americas, Kazuto Ogawa, about her idea.

It struck a nerve for Ogawa and he helped out in a way Levinthal said she didn't expect. He provided 15, gently used, state-of-the-art cameras to SHS for "Flash Friends."

"With complete surprise, the letter did have an impact," Levinthal told school board members. "I am still in awe of this happening. This meant I could now truly move forward."

And move forward she did.

With assistance from Corvi, Levinthal taught the basics of photography to a population of students that might not have had such opportunities.

She ensured there was a camera to be had if a student wanted to take pictures.

While speaking at the board meeting, Levinthal conveyed that photography specifically and, art in general, can be a means for students of all academic types to connect with each other.

"Photography is not only an amazing art form and practice, but it also brings universal joy in its ability to share memories and experiences through a personal lens," Levinthal said.

"It can, conceivably, hopefully, open doors of communication between challenged students and their peers."

Before introducing a short slideshow of their work, Corvi said the photography program has, indeed, bridged communication gaps for challenged pupils.

"The Flash Friends program has provided that pathway for our students," Corvi said.

The slideshow featured an eclectic mix of scenics, still life, animal life and self portraits.

Smiles abounded in the photographs and the talent exhibited was clear.

When it was over, the school board, audience and school officials stood up and applauded, with many program participants in the room.

"I'd like to take a moment to recognize the amazing art work of the students," Southington Assistant Superintendent of Schools Frank Pepe said.

Said Southington Board of Education Chairman Colleen Clark, who was clearly moved by the presentation, to Corvi and Levinthal "Thank you. Thank you for what you do with your kids."

To watch the Oct. 13 Southington Board of Education meeting, click on this link.