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Middle Level Division
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THE OPPORTUNITY OF OBSTACLES Part 3: The Net Worth of Networks “Collaboration is hard work.” —Guerrilla Girls, interview in Co-Art: Artists on Creative Collaboration
If you were to ask 10 middle school art educators to describe their positions, it is possible you would garner 10 completely unique responses. From school size to grades taught to course descriptions, from facilities to time with our students, our roles can vary from one teacher to the next. We, at the Middle Level, adeptly navigate unique circumstances while supporting a student population that is, by definition, in a constant state of flux. Our vibrant division provides a central hub for our individual members, across NAEA, who find themselves in seemingly unique situations. We can gather together to support one another, to solve problems, to share stories, and to brag a bit about how rewarding it is to do what we do. As we approach the midpoint of our school year, we encourage each other to reach out to our Middle-Level colleagues, to share what inspires us each day. Here are a few ways to connect: ATTEND THE CONVENTION!
Our division has a packed schedule in Seattle, including these sessions: • Making & Mystery: “Chopped” for the Middle and Secondary Divisions • Excellence in Our Midst: Middle Level Awardee Showcase • Middle Level Medley I: An Artroom for All • Middle Level Medley II: Promising Practices • Middle Level Medley III: Action & Advocacy • Conversation with Colleagues: A Middle Level Meet-Up
And don’t miss sessions like Cappie Dobyn’s “Reimagining the Art Honor Society Model Towards Purposeful Talent Development” or Barry Morang’s “Bridging the Divisional Gap: Misconceptions and Challenges of Working across Grade Levels.” Keep an eye out for divisional meet-ups, opportunities for involvement, and SWAG—lots of SWAG! SHOWCASE SUCCESSES!
We have grown our opportunities to connect across the division—from our Leading from the Middle newsletter to our updated Pinterest profile to our increasingly active social media networks. You may have noticed our ongoing updates to our Profile Pictures, which now feature student work that has been submitted by fellow MiddleLevel members. We also founded a new Facebook group specifically for NJAHS Chapter Sponsors. And recently, Eastern Regional Division Director Leslie Flowers developed the “Fabulous Faculty” feature for our newsletter, highlighting the work of members Timothy Chaves (MA) and Diane Lally (PA). And Lora Marie Durr (NJ) has actively reimagined our division’s Twitter engagement, working to strengthen our network and connect on a more consistent basis. We welcome
your stories and hope you will continue to share your good work. JOIN THE CONVERSATION WITH COLLABORATE!
News travels fast, and our most efficient, immediate form of connecting is through our various avenues of communication. NAEA recently unveiled its Collaborate platform, which challenges us to “Inspire and Be Inspired.” As members, you can easily sign in and contribute to the Middle Level and National Art Honor Societies communities. Also, find us online, via Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. If a post catches your eye, let us know your take. Or post your own questions to the group. It’s so rewarding to engage with the exciting work that is happening across NAEA. Our network continues to expand with the continued engagement of our divisional membership. Your inspiring work is appreciated by your colleagues, your school community, and, most importantly, your students. Continue to share your stories and shape our potential. Reference
Mara De Wachter, E. (2017). Co-art: Artists on creative collaboration. New York, NY: Phaidon Press.
Lora Marie Durr (NJ), Kerri Waller (GA), and Tamara Dykhouse-Draper (MI) showcased their students’ work as part of the division’s ongoing rotation of social media profile pictures.
Peter Curran Division Director and co-author. Wayland Middle School, Wayland, MA. Tel: 617-721-7888. E-mail:
[email protected]. Twitter: Wmsartlab Elect and co-author: Kathryn Rulien-Bareis, Delong Middle School, Eau Claire, WI. Tel: 715-852-4923. E-mail:
[email protected] Regional Directors: Eastern: Leslie Flowers,
[email protected]; Southeastern: Holly Bess Kincaid,
[email protected]; Western: Michael Orlando,
[email protected]; Pacific: Tamara Green,
[email protected] February/March 2018
NAEA NEWS
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