On our early release day on December 11, teachers participated in a hands-on, engaging professional development with fellows from North Carolina A+ Schools. North Carolina A+ Schools uphold 8 Essentials Arts, Curriculum, Multiple Learning Pathways, Experiential Learning, Enriched Assessment, Collaboration, Infrastructure and Climate. Schools in the A+ network, beginning in 1995, teach the state’s mandated curriculum in a collaborative, multi-disciplined way, with the arts woven into every aspect of a child’s learning experience. Professional development helps support teachers in continuing to uphold this philosophy and provides resources as well as lesson ideas for teachers to integrate in every classroom across grade levels and subject areas. To read more about A+ Schools, visit their website:
https://www.ncarts.org/aplus-schools
During our professional development, teachers sang, danced, mimed, drew, created, research and collaborated on ideas and activities related to math and English-Language Arts. They explored ideas on how to use sound in reading, even incorporating instruments. They utilized the concept of collage as a potential way for students to show learning. The professional development experience also allowed teachers in small groups to review the 8 Essentials of A+ Schools and explain or illustrate each essential through a form of art. It was an exciting time of learning and growing for our staff and presented opportunities for team building and making connection.
View photos at
https://photos.app.goo.gl/dcWmN8UcHgH29sMf8
