me arts ed

Skype? ichat? YouTube, TeacherTube, Electronic conversations?

Every so often I am energized by something I learned with and/or about technology. I walk away with a new twist in my thinking or headed in a different direction. My father in law refers to this as “getting your hat blowed off”. He often uses this when he is involved in a days activity and something happens that causes a change of direction. I find that more and more “my hat gets blowed off”!

Paul Janeczko

Recently, I got an email from Maine author Paul B. Janeczko who was sharing the work he is involved in right now. I met Paul when I was visiting Leavitt High School during an arts week that music educator Bill Buzza had planned a couple of years ago. His use of technology, specifically Skype, is an idea that is helping me think about my direction.

Paul is thrilled to be having 3 books coming out in the next 6 months, all very different from each other: a new book of poems (about a Nazi concentration camp), a nonfiction book on spies, and a teacher book from Heinemann.

A new twist in his work is that he is offering Skype “visits” to schools. He said that “young readers are often bursting with questions they’d like to ask an author, and Skype offers a way for them to ask their questions.” He has two programs that he offers:

1. Schools can book Paul for an in-person visit and they receive a 10-pack of poetry activities. Prior to his visit he does a 15 minute Skype visit. This gives the students a chance to “see” him and ask a few questions which prepares them for his visit.
2. A 60-minute Skype session is the other option which is worthwhile for students and teachers.

Paul is willing to travel anywhere in Maine and last year especially enjoyed his time in Aroostook County and plans to return this year. If you’re interested in learning more please contact Paul at poetguy@megalink.net

And when you are thinking about using technology, think about Skype and the opportunities it affords you as a professional and what it offers your students as learners.

Boston, November 7, 12:00-4:00, Hynes Convention Center, hosted by Mass College of Art and Design

Manon Lewis

At the Maine Art Education Association board meeting recently Boothbay Region High School art teacher Manon Lewis mentioned Portfolio Day and what a great experience it has been for her students in the past. She sent me this information to let me know the details. My guess is that some of you might be interested in what the day is like and how another art teacher handles it. Please contact Manon if you have questions by email mlewis@csd3.org.

The DownEaster train is a great way to travel to Boston for the portfolio day. You can check the details at www.AmtrakDowneaster.com or call 800-872-3298, ask about the Discovery Program and they will give you the field trip rates.

“The Portfolio Day is a crazy affair–lots of long lines (especially at the esteemed schools ie. RISD, Pratt, Parsons…), thousands of students, parents and teachers–so, patience and perseverance are necessary. I usually have my students approach a shorter line–any college– to have their portfolio critiqued just to make sure that they get practice in portfolio review. Also, having the students see lots of other peoples portfolios is a wake-up call for most!  I combine a trip to the Museum of Fine Art, and eating lunch and/or supper at an ethnic restaurant into our day. I’ve had students in the past accepted right there on the spot. It is very worthwhile day.”