me arts ed

Blaine House Reception and Tea

Katrina Laney, gr. 3, Readfield Elementary School with First Lady Karen Baldacci, Art Teacher-Betsy McPhedran, Photo by Darrell Bulmer

Anyone who walks through the State House, the Cross Office Building or the Maine Cultural Building are aware of the childrens art that can be viewed on the walls. The work represents students in grades Pre K-12 and the exhibit was started by the Frist Lady, Karen Baldacci in 2004. She noticed when her husband was elected as Governor that the walls had artwork, but none that represented the children of Maine. She quickly went to work, partnering with the Maine Arts Commission to change that situation.

Today at the Blaine House a reception and tea were held for the exhibiting artists. Each one received a medal, a certificate, and each had their picture taken with the First Lady.

In the First Lady’s words: “It is important to recognize and celebrate excellence in art created by Maine youth. We honor our young artists by displaying artwork throughout our state capital complex for our Governor, Legislators and Maine citizens to enjoy. We thank all students for participating, and our sponsores for generously supporting this worthwhile project.”

Today at Hall Elementary School

Jayne Sawtelle wonderful music educator who was a finalist for the Maine Teacher of the Year award this year. This morning at her school she was surprised at breakfast with blueberry pancakes. The steel drum she leads are named The Blueberry Pancakes.

Later on in the day she was surprised by the entire school of 500 students, parents, administrators and parents honoring her for her accomplishments. And of course, The Blueberry Pancakes played. Portland Superintendent James Morse read a proclamation from Portland Mayor Jill Duson and the students from the first and second grade classes performed a song they had written for Jayne with the help of teacher Rita Rubin.

The humble teacher shared a comment that was said to her by one of her teachers, the director of the band that Jayne has played with for 30 years. “It’s not enough to know your part,” he said.  “You have to know what you’re a part of.” She then added, “I’m a part of this great school and this great community and you’re all a part of it, too.  And that’s very special.”

CONGRATULATIONS JAYNE! YOU’VE MADE MAINE ARTS EDUCATORS PROUD!

The information for this blog post was taken from the Portland Public School Department News blog @ http://blogs.portlandschools.org/ppsd/2009/10/01/hall-honors-teacher-of-the-year-runner-up/

Portland Ovations Presents “Fostering Creativity Through Movement”

Friday, October 9th, 11:30-1                                                                                                                              Portland Arts and Technology High School, Third Floor Dance Studio                                                Great Opportunity for Dancers and Gymnasts

What will a master class with Pilobolus be like?

John Kane photographer

“While it is impossible to describe exactly what a Pilobolus class will be, I can give you a feeling for what we give.  I think our classes are truly unique.”
Matt Kent , one of the company’s dance captains

Partnering principles, improvisational skills, group collaboration, and the psychology of movement are assimilated and grounded in practice and experiential learning. During the class participants discover the seeds of dance theatre with a focus on non-traditional dance vocabulary, honing
and developing the idiosyncrasies of individual physicality.

To register for the master class, please click here or contact Barri Lynn Moreau, Director of Education and Outreach Portland Ovations 207-773-3150 x3 blmoreau@portlandovations.org

To learn more about the work of Pilobolus you are invited to join them for a free pre-curtain lecture at 6:30pm in Merrill Rehearsal Hall before seeing the performance at 8 pm in Merrill Auditorium.  Tickets are still available at PortTix 207-842-0800.