Until then, it has been an amazing adventure in itself just finding out everything there is to know about this new space. So many new puzzles to figure out as I encounter various materials and supplies; uncovering bits of history and wondering how to carry it into the here and now. And let us not forget the cleaning! There is a much sated little art nerd in me who giggles a little bit to her self with a smile as each item gets scrubbed down, wiped clean, and places it neatly arranged in its new spot. This is most definitely my happy place and I can not wait to see it all come together!
It has only been a week but what a week it has been! Every day, I get a thrill of excitement and wonder as I open the door to the art room that I still can not believe is all mine. In just a few more weeks, the room will be filled with smiling faces, creative learning, and endless surprises and I am SO excited.
Until then, it has been an amazing adventure in itself just finding out everything there is to know about this new space. So many new puzzles to figure out as I encounter various materials and supplies; uncovering bits of history and wondering how to carry it into the here and now. And let us not forget the cleaning! There is a much sated little art nerd in me who giggles a little bit to her self with a smile as each item gets scrubbed down, wiped clean, and places it neatly arranged in its new spot. This is most definitely my happy place and I can not wait to see it all come together!
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Sometimes you just hit the ground running! Maybe it is because life has all but prepared you for this moment. Maybe it's just the excitement of what is to be that gets you in a state where you just can't stop. Maybe it is because the reality is there isn't as much time as you think. Regardless, of the reason (and I'll pick the former 2 first) I'm off and ready! A preliminary of the first 17 weeks of class projects, grades 1st-6th, are listed, organized, and ready to go. Of course there may be some adjusting the comes over the next few weeks: a reflective look into projects done in the past, consideration of materials readily available and those that need to be ordered; finalization to the number and frequency of sessions, etc; and that's all to be expected. Even so, it's nice to have a strong idea of what you hope to accomplish no matter what occurs along the way.
Now to take a step back, consider back up and filler projects, plan art extensions, ready my introduction to students and parents, design a welcome letter, consider my room set up, organize something for the open house, assemble.... This summer has been SO amazing; so eventful; so heartfelt and heart breaking; and so magical. August marks the beginning of big changes as we finally make the move to leave Midland and prepare for our new settlement in Lansing. In just a few short weeks, I will be hitting a new milestone as I begin my career as an elementary art teacher for Grand Ledge Public Schools!
So much to look forward to and so much to reflect on. This summer has been wonderful with frequent trips to visit family and the surprise zoo trips that accompanied them. Add the long-awaited opportunity to not only visit my favorite island but also stay there for the first time since I worked there over 5 years ago. Not many people understand the appeal of Mackinac Island; of staying on a place surrounded by water and filled with the smells of horses and fudge. For me, the place holds special meaning, my home away from home. If I could live there I would (don't be surprised if I retire there). Every visit feels like a chance for me to recharge as I take in the sights and smells of the island and relax in the waters of Lake Huron. If you've never been I highly recommend it; I'm already planning for my trip next year! A summer reflection would not be complete without looking back at the amazing opportunity to teach various art classes at the Midland Center for the Arts. I had such a blast and the kids were fantastic! Not only was it great to see such creative minds at work, but it challenged me in ways I never thought and prepared me for a path I can't wait to embark. So many amazing projects that I look forward to trying with my students in Grand Ledge. Though the summer had so many highlights, there were some shadows as well, such as having to say goodbye to so many people who I've learned to call family. Camp Fire was a truly unique experience and I will never forget all the staff and especially the students that helped to shape who I am today. You never realize how many you've inspired until it's time to say goodbye. I hope they realize how much they've inspired me in return. And then there was my Midland Public School art teacher crew, who opened up so many opportunities for me, shared their passions, and prepped me for a truly amazing career. I'm going to miss them all very deeply but I look forward to the journey ahead and to sharing my new stories with them in the future. Le sigh...I love this time of year. Endings, beginnings...the world is gearing up for a new start and I can't wait! How many more weeks till school starts?! |
Nicole BD
Life long learner and art enthusiast. Follow along as I delve into the world of teaching elementary art! Archives
September 2018
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