Everyone appreciates receiving mail—especially when it’s a handmade card. Maybe that’s why I enjoy creating them and sending them for birthdays, holidays, and honestly, just about any occasion. I’ve been making cards for years, and recently a friend said to me, “Card making is your superpower. Why don’t you offer a workshop?”
So—I am!
I’ll be teaching a card-making workshop at the Gibbs Library in Washington. The library offers workshops for free, and you don’t have to be a resident to join. If you’re interested, there’s still space available and a couple of days left to register. Details below. Please email me if you have any questions at meartsed@gmail.com.
As I mentioned in my last blog post, I am making changes to this site. Please make a note: one of the changes will be a new URL. I will be moving from meartsed.wordpress.com to argynestor.com. (Not yet, but soon.) My email will continue to be meartsed@gmail.com.
In October I was grateful for the opportunity to attend the announcement of the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year, Becky Hallowell, at Wiscasset Elementary School. Congratulations Becky! Earlier in the year Becky was selected as the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year along with 15 other Maine teachers representing counties. Becky is known for her dedication to place-based and project learning, her mentorship of new educators and her love of the outdoors, Hallowell strives to connect her students to their environment and their community.
Commissioner of Education Pender Makin and 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year Becky Hallowell
The excitement was high from the start that October morning when Becky led her 4th grade class into the gym. The pride on the faces of the students and staff was evident and there was no holding the excitement back. The gathering in the gym was filled with smiles, enthusiasm and lots of music and movement. I was impressed with the spirit of joy that was evident throughout the ceremony.
Becky has been teaching at Wiscasset Elementary School for the last 10 years. She graduated from the University of Maine at Farmington and has been teaching in total for 30 years. Becky will be a wonderful ambassador for all Maine teachers during the 2025 year.
The focus on students was wonderful to see. They had a dance party, which I understand from music teacher Carole Drury, that is something that happens on a regular basis. Everyone was up on their feet singing and dancing. The elementary chorus prepared a special song for the school community and guests. Carole’s attention to detail with the program was appreciated!
Maine’s Teacher of the Year program is administered by Educate Maine. Selected from the 16 County Teachers of the Year each fall, the Maine Teacher of the Year becomes the most visible ambassador of the teaching profession in the state. They are invited to serve on various committees, participate in many program and events, and speak on a number of occasions in Maine.
The Maine Teacher of the Year represents Maine in the National Teacher of the Year Program (NTOY), administered by the Chief Council of State School Officers (CCSSO). State Teachers of the Year participate in the National Teacher of the Year Induction Program, Washington DC Recognition Week (includes a White House ceremony), International Space Camp and the Next Steps Conference at Princeton University.
I love attending the high school musicals in the fall. It never fails, I walk away every time thinking, WOW, I am so impressed that high schoolers rise to the level of a great performance. Many of the actors are not new to the stage yet others are just beginning. As you know – the voices, costumes, set, acting, make up, lights, sound, and music are all critical components of the final performance. I am aware that bringing together all of the pieces can be very challenging. When the curtain goes up most people in the audience are not aware of what it takes to create the fall musical. Schedules, illness, grades, transportation, a willingness and commitment from everyone involved (students and adults), and other factors contribute. I was fortunate to have first hand knowledge helping some with middle school plays and again when my own sons were in high school, one on stage and the other on tech I supported in many ways. They both were part of community theatre as well. The commitment that students and staff and parents contribute is enormous. At some level it is collaboration at its VERY best. Perhaps our community (and beyond) leaders should take a close look at theatre programs.
I know that some (perhaps many) will not agree with me when I say IF we could only have one discipline of visual and performing arts education in schools, I’d pick Theatre, every time. Think about it – visual arts students work on the design of the stage, set, program, and costumes. Music students play in the pit band and on stage singing. Dance students are moving. Media Arts students are creating the sound and lights. Theatre students are center stage. I especially love it when the hesitant students are needed to take on a part and right in front of our eyes they grow into the role.
Why do I feel strongly about every student being involved in the theatre program? Besides involving all the arts disciplines it allows learners to literally and figuratively move to the edge (of themselves and the stage). It encourages them to take a chance and challenge themselves. Throughout the “play” process they engage in problem solving and improvising. Let us not forget the literature they are learning, not by reading script and keeping it inside, but speaking and putting into action the words and lines and story. They synthesize, analyze, ideating as the play formulates over a period of months. The story builds within each participate as they learn their positions and parts. Without the others on stage with them it doesn’t come to fruition. They depend on each other to help provide what the audience sees, hears, experiences and in the end hopefully, appreciates. The climax is the applause and perhaps a standing ovation that helps them realize, all the time and commitment they’ve made IS appreciated and worth it! I can tell when I look into their faces during the curtain call, the pride is evident. Sitting in the audience is me smiling from ear to ear. Even though I may not know the actors, musicians, dancers, and artists who made it happen, I can feel their pride.
Whether you have children of your own in high school or not I encourage you to find out when and where the plays in your area are scheduled. Don’t let another fall musical season pass without attending at least one. Below are some listed (some have passed) that I am aware of at this time. If you’d like one added to the list please email me (Argy Nestor) at meartsed@gmail.com.
Medomak Valley High School, Waldoboro, Guys and Dolls, last performance today, November 10, 2:00. Learn more!
Camden Hills Regional High School, Strom Auditorium, Into the Woods, November 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24. Learn more!
Freeport High School, Mamma Mia, November 8 and 9.
Thornton Academy, Saco, Little Women, November 22-24. Learn more!
Falmouth High School, Mean Girls High School Edition!, October 25, 26, 27, November 1, 2, 3.
Oceanside High School, Rockland, Legally Blond The Musical, November 8, 9, 15, 16, 17. Learn more!
Mount Desert Island High School, Chicago, November 15, 16, 22, 23. Learn more!
Fryeburg Academy, Amelie the Musical, November 14, 15, 16. Learn more!
Lake Region High School, Little Shop of Horrors, January 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26. Learn more!
Mt. Ararat High School, Topsham, Our Town, December 6-8, and Spring musical Mamma Mia, March 7-9. Learn more!
Last week I had the opportunity to join retired art teachers in Portland. We visited galleries, had lunch together and most importantly we spent time catching up and had conversations on many topics. It was a treat to learn about the art they’re making, what art organizations they are affiliated with, and how they spend time appreciating life after teaching.
I realize readers of this blog are at different places in their career. Some of you are retired, some veteran teachers, others at the beginning and some in the middle of your careers. I have learned from substitute teaching that teaching today is different. The challenges are different; from curriculum to learners to community, both local and beyond. I also know that the arts classrooms are still safe places for many and in some cases the only room and sometimes the only teacher in school who are open and supportive to all learners. Striving to maintain this can be a challenge in itself. However, what you do is critical and I appreciate your work.
What the arts teach us is impactful throughout a person’s life. I’ve been working on a community project that has dragged on. I know its my skills as a teacher and an artist that have helped me continue working on the project and seeing it to fruition. Working collaboratively is not easy and what I’ve learned over the years collaborative work doesn’t come easy to most. Again, it is critical, especially in this era of political battles. I am reminded over and over that quality arts education programs and access to it for all learners is absolutely necessary.
If you’re in the classroom think about what a retired arts educator could do to support your important work. And, if you’re retired reach out to an arts teacher and offer your assistance. Together you can be strong advocates for arts education. After all, we know that ‘none of us is as smart as all of us’. Let’s continue to work together for the excellent arts programs to be at the heart of schools.
If you’re a retired art teacher and are not on the email list to learn about gatherings please email me at meartsed@gmail.com.
Bates Mill, Lewiston, Maine, November 15-December 15
On the eve of the most important election of my life I think its most appropriate to be sharing the following information with you. The entire collection of over 270 Americans Who Tell the Truth portraits will be on display at the Bates Mill in Lewiston, Maine, November 15 to December 15. This special exhibition of American figures—ranging from historical icons to contemporary activists— stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity, courage, and truth in democracy. Using the power of art, artist Robert Shettlerly illuminates the ongoing challenge to realize America’s democratic ideals and model the commitment to act for the common good. This exhibit invites visitors to engage with the portraits and stories of individuals who have made significant sacrifices to speak truth to power.
Each portrait is accompanied by a quote that captures the essence of the subjects’ personal stories and their commitment to truth. This collection includes renowned leaders such as Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, as well as modern-day activists.
The Bates Mill, an iconic structure in Lewiston, serves as an inspiring backdrop for this exhibit. Once a hub of textile manufacturing, the mill has been repurposed into a cultural space that fosters creativity and community engagement.
From guided tours to panel discussions featuring portrait subjects and local activists to education and art workshops for students and teachers, the exhibit is designed to be interactive and thought-provoking, encouraging people to engage deeply with the themes presented in the portraits.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exhibit Opening The exhibit opening will be on Friday, November 15, 5 – 7 p.m. at the Bates Mill, 35 Canal St., Lewiston, ME. Attendees will have the opportunity to spend time viewing the portraits before a brief program starts at 5:45. The program will include an introduction to AWTT by Robert Shetterly, brief comments from several portrait subjects, and a description of other programs offered during the month.
Teacher Workshop AWTT will offer a workshop for educators on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 3 – 5:30 p.m. The workshop will feature time to view all 270 AWTT portraits, an opportunity to interact with AWTT education programs and lessons, and a panel discussion facilitated by Benjamin Perry. Registration at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1038863898887? Space is limited so register today!
Additional Opportunities
There will be opportunities for educators, students, and community groups to have a scheduled docent-led tour of the exhibit as well as additional self-guided activities and resources to facilitate interactions with this exhibit. If you would like to schedule a docent-facilitated visit to the exhibit, please contact Connie Carter atconnie@americanswhotellthetruth.org.
Donate to support this Show
If you are interested in supporting the exhibit in Lewiston, we are seeking donations to support the installation of the full 270 + portraits as well as programing for schools, teachers, and community events. Please visit our website americanswhotellthetruth.org/donate/ to donate online towards this show. Or, Venmo AWTT your fully tax deductible donation @americanswhotellthetruth.org. Please note that your donation is for the Lewiston AWTT show.
Americans Who Tell the Truth continually demonstrates, from our most recent and past history, the challenges that we face to realize America’s democratic ideals. No matter the outcomes of tomorrow’s presidential election we must work towards coming together as one America and act for the common good!
Not long ago I had the opportunity to attend a segment of the Maine Council for English Languages Arts teachers conference. To kick off their annual learning opportunity teachers gathered at Portland Stage for an evening of poetry provided by Maya Williams. I was delighted to hear Maya recite her own poetry. While working at the Maine Arts Commission I was responsible for the state Poetry Out Loud program for high school students. That experience provided me the opportunity to listen to many many poets, some students and some professional poets at the local, state and national level. During that time I never heard anyone recite like Maya. She has passion and energy that invited me to the edge of my chair to listen very carefully.
Maya is the seventh Poet Laureate of Portland and currently an Ashley Bryan Fellow. Fortunately, Maya took the time from her busy schedule to answer some questions for me. Maya graduated with a Bachelors in Social Work and a Bachelors of Art in English in May 2017. In May 2018 they graduated with a community practice-focused Masters in Social Work and Certificate in Applied Arts and Social Justice from the University of New England. Maya graduated with a Masters in Fine Arts Creative Writing with a Focus in Poetry at Randolph College in June 2022. You can read more about Maya’s background at THIS LINK.
Congratulations on being the seventh Poet Laureate of Portland. What responsibilities does this include?
Thank you! Responsibilities include working with the Portland Public Library to facilitate poetry programming for Southern Maine’s community.
I had the chance to visit with Ashley at his home on Little Cranberry Island in 2018. What an honor to be an Ashley Bryan Fellow. What has the recognition afforded you?
I truly wish I had the chance to meet him. I have been able to meet with fellow writers of color and have more resources and opportunities from the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance.
Please tell the blog readers about your background in writing poetry. When did it begin, who or what influenced you?
I have been writing since the age of 5, writing poetry since the age of 8. What really influenced me was learning more about spoken word poetry in late high school, and then competing in the collegiate poetry slam scene all through college.
What or who inspires and/or motivates you?
Youth inspires and motivates me. Community inspires and motivates me. My mother inspires me all the time. Poets such as Anis Mojgani, Kaveh Akbar, Paige Lewis, Melissa Ferrer-Civil, Mia Stewart-Willis, Shay Alexi, Julia Bouwsma, and so much more.
When providing opportunities for young people to hear your message, your content includes BIG and IMPORTANT topics: suicide awareness, mental health, faith, entertainment media, grief, interpersonal relationships, intimate partner violence, and healing. I’m imagining that it takes some front loading to be sure that your audience is ‘ready’. What happens beforehand to help teachers prepare their learners?
This is a great question. I’m really upfront with teachers in advance. I also let them know that I use content warnings before performing along with encouraging students to take care of themselves by walking around, leaving the room and coming back as needed, doodling, whatever they need.
You’ve received recognition for your poetry including finalist for Slam Free Or Die Qualifier Slam for their National Poetry Slam (NPS) 2018 team and a runner up of the Slam Free or Die Individual Slam Championship in 2018. Congratulations! What advice do you offer to young people interested in writing?
Thank you! I would say to always be sure you’re finding fellow writers to write with. Writing does not have to be as lonely of a process as we initially think it does.
When you shared your poetry at Portland Stage as part of the Maine Council for English Language Arts Annual Conference you were amazing. In my past I was responsible for the Maine Poetry Out Loud program and have had many opportunities to listen to poets recite. I’ve never heard anyone recite with the passion and in the style that you offered. I found myself wishing that every young person could have the opportunity to hear you. You are a gem. What words of wisdom, from your experience, do you offer to others who are learning to read and share poetry?
You’re so so kind. I want to encourage people to know that you don’t have to share everything you’ve written. You can share when you’re ready to share and either feel comfortable or feel ready enough to push yourself slightly out of your comfort zone. Also, not writing still counts as writing. There’s so much life to live before getting it all on the page and sharing it in public.
You can find Maya’s workshop and school visit information on her website at https://www.mayawilliamspoet.com/ Maya has written many poems and has published books available on her website as well. If you have the chance to hear her in performance please don’t hesitate, you won’t be disappointed!
A huge THANK YOU to the teachers reading this blog post. Even though I’m not in the classroom every day I have a glimpse of your roles and responsibilities when I substitute. The part that amazes me is how much the role of a teacher has shifted in a relatively short period of time. You’ve become teachers, parents, social workers and much more. I read with sadness the article in last weeks Maine Sunday Telegram about the number of students without homes and the responsibility of the schools to help students get to school and stay in school by providing meals, clothing, and a place to clean themselves. It is clear that without everyone working together children won’t learn and be successful. My huge THANK YOU doesn’t express how grateful I am to each teacher who cares deeply about students.
At this point in my life I’m having opportunities to see former students as community members. Some of you know that I am co-chairing my town of Union’s Sestercentennial celebration – 250 years. The town appointed committee started work in September of 2022 and the culminating event is July 19, 20, and 21, 2024. I work with amazing community members and school personnel who are all about collaborating to create the best possible celebration.
Two artists-in-residency’s have taken place at Union Elementary School with all students in grades PreK-6. Music educator Scott Dyer has written a musical called The Trees Remember based on the history of our town. As arts educators we know that when students are provided opportunities to sing, dance, recite, create costumes and sets that they rise to the occasion and shine! And shine they did in front of an audience of 400 which included families and community members.
The second residency is with music and dance teaching artist Chrissy Fowler from Flying Shoes who is teaching the learners contra dancing. This form of social dancing is community-based, helps connect people, cultivates pro-social behaviors, and supports social/emotional learning. The figures and dance steps are simple, which helps all skill levels and ages participate together. On May 17, 6:00-7:30 the community is invited to a contra dance at the school where families and the greater community will come together and dance.
These are just two of the many activities I’ve been fortunate to work on with the town of Union and the Union Historical Society. If you want to learn more about the 3-day event please CLICK HERE for the schedule.
You may be wondering what does this have to do with teacher appreciation week. Through my volunteerism on the Sestercentennial I’ve had the pleasure of watching and listening to many former students who are involved in our town on different levels. The work we do while teaching is one thing but to see students as adults integrated into community and their world of work is fascinating. Appreciation has shifted for me to a different lens. It has never been more clear that the education we provide students goes way beyond the classroom. The social, communication, collaboration and flexibility skills that we teach are critical to the health of our communities. I’m learning, first hand, that the impact goes way beyond the few years that young people attend school!
Here is one example of the importance of our teaching…
Andrew White was a very creative student in my middle school art classroom. He graduated from Medomak Valley High School (Waldoboro) in 1992 and went on to Massachusetts College of Art and Design. He returned to our community and on occasion our paths crossed during the last few years. One time he was working with elementary students building a pizza oven at a nearby school when I had a chance to see him in action with learners. He wasn’t just building a pizza oven but teaching the learners about the Fibonacci Sequence. Immediately I realized what an integrated thinker Andy is. Today he is a maker, a combination of designer, fabricator and problem solver. It’s evident in conversation that his multi-dimensional thinking is interwoven throughout his thinking and being and is what he brings to every task. He specializes in architectural steel work and supporting the arts community of Midcoast Maine. He works out of and manages Midcolab, a collaborative co-working shop in Thomaston.
Andrew in Midcolab, his collaborative co-working shop in Thomaston
Fortunately, he agreed to look at one of the projects we’re tackling as part of the Sestercentennial. Come Spring is a book based on the lives of the early settlers of Union. Inside the front cover there is a map with locations showing the places shared in the book. In 1968 the map was painted by an artist who split her time between Brooklyn, NY and Union. It sits on an angle and is 5′ X 5′, and is on the corner our common. It was repainted in 1982 by Donna Morine who has lived in Union for many years. From all the years in the sun the painting as faded, the frame bent from the frost and the legs are rotten from the road salt. The Sestercentennial planning committee decided this was a great time to refurbish it.
Original map created in 1968
Andy immediately offered his expertise and brought an artist/sign painter to look at it who agreed to make the painting. There was lots of discussion, email and text exchanges and Andy kicked into action creating possibilities. In addition, the collaboration includes a graphic artist, a stone mason (another former student) and consultation with several others who Andy has worked with over the years.
New location and front and back sides – concept
Earlier this week Andy and I did a presentation to the Select Board for approval of the concept. (Talk about fun!). The work has gone to the next level and we are grateful for the town support, including donations from individuals and families to fund the project.
Andy and I waiting for our turn to speak at the Select Board meeting
Needless to say I am over the moon when I think about Andy sitting in my art room all those years ago and seeing where he is today. (Please note: I don’t take any credit for Andy’s success). My smile is wide thinking and learning about the meaningful work (directly related to art or not) that these young people are doing (OK, maybe not so young, Andy will turn 50 in July), I couldn’t be more proud. Teacher Appreciation Week has turned into Student Appreciation for me. Former students like Andy are living their dreams every day. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Maine Arts Assessment Institute, summer 2011, phase 2, Maine College of Art + Design
Over the past few months I’ve been working on a talk that I am giving called The ARTS at the Center at the New England League of Middle Schools conference in Springfield, MA. I have 60 minutes to speak about arts education to a room full of about 400 middle school educators. Perhaps half will be arts educators. To prepare I’ve looked at current and past research, I’ve scanned files, I’ve read papers and documents, I’ve found photos, and I’ve spoken to several educators. Every time something seems important to be sure and include I’ve made a note. The content kept growing and when i started to practice I realized that I had about two and a half times more content then I need. I’ve been cutting during the last week. It is filled with stories and I disliked cutting stories but I had no choice. We all have stories, especially educators.
Maine Arts Assessment Initiative, summer 2012, phase 2, Maine College of Art + Design
As I pulled out of the driveway to leave for the conference today my husband assured me that it would go well. As I headed down the road I thought about how important it is, especially as teachers, to challenge ourselves, step out of our comfort zones and really stretch. For one thing it reminds us of how our students feel. For some students, teachers ask them to do hard stuff every day. Stretching ourselves is important and helping our students stretch is equally important. Most adults can put supports in place as we’re stretching. For kids that’s not always the case. It’s important that we are mindful of supporting our students as they grow and learn.
Rob Westerberg and Catherine Ring, Maine Arts Assessment Initiative, winter retreat, Zillman Art Museum
Lately I’ve thought about many of the professional development and learning opportunities I’ve been part of planning and attending. The photos that I’ve looked through have brought back many memorable moments. I especially love the photos I’ve included in this blog post and the sweet memories that accompany them.
Mpamila Village, Malawi, 2016, 10 day Arts Integration workshop
Karen Montanaro, Nick Kleiner perform The Soccer mime, Farnsworth Art Museum, statewide arts education conference, 2008
The annual Youth Art Month exhibit at the Portland Museum of Art (PMA) is under way from now until March 31. The Maine Art Education Association partners with the PMA to present artwork created by artists in PK-grade 12. Like every other year this show represents a variety of learning by students from across the state and is a great opportunity to recognize the many art educators behind the work and voices of learner. You won’t want to miss this incredible show.
Fortunately, if you can not travel to Portland for the show, you can view the artwork virtually at THIS LINK. You will find three listings, K-grade 4, grades 5-8, and grades 9-12. Some are included below. Enjoy!
Eliot Gauvin, Untitled 3rd Grade Sharpie and Tempera Great Falls Elementary School Gorham, ME Cumberland County Teacher: Allie Rimkunas
Haddie Bickford, Neurographic Art 6th Grade Mixed Media Waterville Junior High School Waterville, ME Kennebec County Teacher: Jaice Drozd
Shayleigh Mercier, Patches In My Universe 8th Grade Watercolor and Sharpie Lewiston Middle School Lewiston, ME Androscoggin County Teacher: Tracy Ginn
Hannah Keller, The Target Beret 9th Grade Acrylic Morse High School Bath, ME Sagadahoc County Teacher: Constance Panetski
Kassidy Vyas, metánonia 10th Grade Earthenware, Black Underglaze, Clear Glaze Scarborough High School Scarborough, ME Cumberland County Teacher: Lisa Ruhman
Argy Nestor
Arts Educator, Blogger, Artist, Connector meartsed@gmail.com
https://sites.google.com/view/anestor/
Argy’s Blog
The purpose of this blog is to share stories about people and places; and to celebrate the amazing work (and play) that students, educators, and organizations are doing in and for arts education. In addition, the blog has a plethora of resources and innovative ideas. This forum gives blog readers the opportunity to learn from each other. It is essential that we listen, learn, and collaborate in order to build on teaching practices for the benefit of every learner in Maine and beyond.
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