Happy Holidays!
December 22, 2009Reflections!
I’m sitting here by the woodstove tonight, the shortest day of the year, pondering 2009! Our accomplishments in arts education are many!
There have been outstanding arts education opportunities for educators to help improve teaching and learning.
The first phase of the statewide census is complete and has provided a clear picture of programs across the state.
The statewide arts education conference, The Arts Connect was held in October and almost 300 educators took advantage of the variety of offerings.
There are 1050 members on the arts ed list serv. The meartsed blog was established almost a year ago, conversation is increasing and there were 779 visitors during the past week.
Arts educators are at the heart of outstanding school districts across the country and each of you have much to be proud of. It is crucial that arts educators and those who care deeply about the importance of arts programming for students communicate about your work to colleagues, community members and align yourself with folks who can promote the work and importance of it.
The next couple of years for arts education are crucial due to the financial situation. I suggest you utilize technology to help communicate the importance of quality arts education for all students. Post kids art work, write about what student achievement in the arts classroom is about, make a presentation during March for Youth Art Month and Music in Our Schools Month. Please continue to be proactive! I trust that if we continue to work together that we will maintain and grow our programs! This responsibility belongs to all of us!
Since I can not visit each of you in your classrooms during the next few days I am sending you an electronic message.
me arts ed 
Can you play the piano as well!!! Happy Holidays!!!
We need to THANK YOU ARGY! You have worked tirelessly for ALL Arts Educators across this state. You have connected so many of us and given us all the gift of reminding us that our work is not going unrecognized and the arts are so vital for each and every student in this state. Merry Christmas and may the new year bring all Arts educators reasons for joy and celebration of our amazing students!
I wish I had the time to practice my piano playing… I do love to play! Nothing like Linus at the piano at Christmastime!
Argy,
Thanks for the video message….. it is a true testament to the fact that you
are a tireless and courageous student – qualities of a master teacher.
διδάσκαλος (teacher), thank you.
Suzanne
I have to agree with Lisa Gilman in her comment to you. Thank you for your leadership, guidance and advocacy. The coming years ahead paints a gloomy picture in financial assistance. Your blog and links gives art educators like myself, a support network and resource. Yes, posting students works w/ goals and objectives, aligning with state and local standards, technology and most important, a presentation to the school board are just some of the ways to make educational programs be heard and seen in our communities.
Happy New Year!
You are toooooo much! The antlers are great! I was hoping you were going to sing to us. (just kidding)