RI Teacherfest 2019

Although music teachers have concerts and art teachers have art shows, much of what happens in today's specialist classrooms (music, art, world language, etc.) remains behind closed doors. It is important to visibly display the valuable work that is taking place outside the core curriculum classrooms. As administrators and other community stakeholders make decisions about the future of specialist programs in schools, it is more critical than ever that educators show off the importance of their program. This session will empower educators to collaborate with other educators to create outstanding showcase opportunities in the community. By combining energy, talents, and ideas, many teachers working together can create projects and events that are much bigger than one teacher could organize alone. Participants will learn about successful collaborations between music, world language, technology education, art, and library science teachers. Examples include: a collaborative music, dancing, and theater production; a recycled instrument project; a film festival; art projects; and electric guitar building. The purpose of the session is to compel educators to work with others to think about creative ways to put their program in the spotlight that it deserves. Participants will be encouraged to brainstorm ideas that might work well for their specific school, specials offered, and community. Many of the activities that will be shared can be implemented immediately.