me arts ed

RAINBOW!

Lately I have received a handful of emails that describe the difficult situations happening with arts education programs across the state. Some jobs have been changed to include teaching assignments other than art, music, dance or theater. Some have been eliminated and some reduced from full time. I know this is a stressful time but feel confident that the tide will change and situations will improve. When I was leaving Augusta today, heading for home, the sun was shining and there were a few, very large drops of rain falling. I was approaching the bridge that takes me over the Kennebec River and one of the largest rainbows I have ever seen appeared. It was so large I felt like I was sitting in the front row of the movie theater watching it on the big screen. I could see the entire rainbow, both ends. This is a site that I have only had the opportunity to see a few times in my life. For me it was a sign… things will improve! I am taking this opportunity to ask questions and I hope you will as well. Here are some suggestions:

• Is what I am teaching necessary for students to be successful in this century?
• Is my curriculum challenging and lessons meaningful?
• Do I encourage students to ask questions, explore ideas, analyze their artwork and the work of others?
• Have I moved from “deliverer of information” to facilitator in the learning environment?
• Is my classroom student centered?

I wish I had my camera when I was driving home to take a photograph of the rainbow. When I arrived there was another rainbow across the road from my home, or was it the same one?! We were headed for a walk and my husband pulled out his cell phone and captured the picture in this blog post. The rainbow was not as large but none the less, beautiful! I had to wonder if it was a reminder that the days ahead could be difficult but we need to work together to continue to do what we believe in. Teaching the arts is truly a gift and one that all of you, who do, can be proud of!