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Janey Hood
October 2015: It's taken me a bit to get back on here to let you know what is going on in Mt. Vernon Elementary School, but better late than never, huh! This year I have switched over to using TAB (Teaching to Artistic Behaviors) strategies. This is a centers and choice based way of doing art. Using these strategies will help to eliminate the cookie-cutter look of everyone's work looking the same. Now there will be a few projects that we do very similar, but over-all, the artwork should look original. ... read more These strategies prepare the artists to use critical thinking skills that are vital to the growing artist. The centers allow for experimentation, and the always exciting serendipity! We have lots of AH HA!! moments! Although I we have only created 2 projects so far (per grade level), I can already see students' creativity climbing. Students are able to choose the media they want to use, as well as the subject. I do give an assignment, as I will describe in each lesson plan for each project, but the rest is up to them. I have books and pictures for reference as well as the Internet, but most of the ideas come straight from the artist's creativity. I love being a part of opening up a child to the never ending possibilities in their creative minds!
May, 2014: I just completed my 15th year of teaching art. I have taught K-12, with the last 5 years I have been teaching at Mt. Vernon Elementary. I absolutely LOVE what I do! Especially the elementary! They are always in a cheerful mood, and put a smile on my face. The students inspire me to want to do the coolest projects. My favorite time of the year is when I plan out the new projects for the next year. I have been known to chose projects a bit higher than than grade level. My philosophy: challenge the students and they will rise to those expectations. Does it take extra work on my part? Absolutely! But I'm not one to back down from a challenge. If I am getting bored with a project, I can bet that the students are too. I strive to pay close attention to what my students are able to do, and challenge them individually to do their best. We have had many of our students win art shows here in Missouri, and hope to be entering more in the coming year. I am a BIT competitive. I think that just goes with the job. I think most art teachers are. I love that Artsonia makes it competitive, and I will strive to beat my ranking year after year. Considering we only have right at 300 students in our building, I think we have done extraordinarily well! The area I really want to get better is Fan Clubs. Parents, this is where you can help. Invite your friends and family to become fan club members of your artist. Next year we could be MUCH closer to the top with your help.
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