Now, of course it is really hard for me to do something with out taking it to the extreme. So, I thought of lots of potential projects that are related to this one alone. Such as... how could we share some of these pieces of "art" with family members, how could we display some of this "art" in our own home, and what do we do with the stuff that we need to save? But, I remembered that technically all I really needed was a solution to the mess (for now).
I tried and tried to come up with a solution that was better than stashing it all under the built in secretary in the breakfast nook. For my family personally, I just couldn't think of a better solution. Plus, we were already in a habit putting all the papers there. So, I wanted to go with the same idea but a little nicer container than just a paper box. I searched thrift stores and such for a cheap basket (preferably with a lid). Stores such as Hobby Lobby have awesome baskets, but this just wasn't something I wanted to spend very much money on.
After getting very frustrated because I couldn't find ANYTHING, I had a realization that I actually have a storage situation in the secretary. So, my solution was there all along. My suggestion, for anyone else who might use this idea, would be to use a covered basket and put it by the front door, in the laundry room, under the sofa table, etc. For 1st grade, I am just going to use the drawer in the secretary to put his school papers. While I am disappointed that I didn't find what I was thrifting for, this project was technically free. You just can't beat that. The best part is, the school paper mess is very conceiled in the drawer. The moral of the story is, really look at what you have and try to use that as best as you can.
And now...I will know right where to go when I come to your house to look for his artwork and crafts! Great idea!!!