A message from Tamar Krames Arts in Education Program Manager (former K-12 teacher, and parent of middle and high school students):
When I was a high school teacher, this time of year was both nerve-wracking and full of well-organized optimism. I had systems ready to rock and also the knowledge that any beautiful system must, in the end, change to meet the strengths, interests, and learning needs of each dynamic network of learners. Today, the systems around us are rapidly changing and we need each other to remember our purpose, to remember the strength of our creative gifts, and to continue the essential work of teaching and learning.
Here at ArtsWA, we hope that arts and cultural learning opportunities are part of the equation in learning communities of all kinds. We invite educators, families, and students to find time to create, express, listen deeply, and celebrate cultural practices. Check out the projects and programs within ArtsWA’s Arts in Education Program and know that we love what educators and teaching artists do inside and outside the school day in service of students. Have a fantastic year of inspiration, connection, and wellbeing!
In this special issue:
- A celebration of arts integration in Eastern Washington
- Information about Poetry Out Loud and Poetry Forward
- Curricular resources focused on creative career exploration
- A podcast featuring two young adult dancers
- An article by a youth arts leader and musician
- A call to action written by youth arts leaders