That's a Wrap!

Aloha, Friends!

Well, here we go... into Summer!

I hope you had some terrific moments this year. And after you get into the business of sleeping and relaxing for a while, I hope you have an opportunity to reflect on what worked this year, and what you would like to improve and add next year.

As a BTSA provider this year, I explored the concept of using an inquiry based model for self improvement. From a very simplistic point of view, it's kinda like a KWL chart. Here's what I know about my teaching, here's what I want to know about my teaching, and here's what I've learned about my teaching after study and reflection. You could change that to student learning, or any other more specific topic. Those of you that have to endure Stull next year may want to look at this model.

Thank you ALL for supporting me this year in my new position. It is a pleasure to get up and come to work, striving to support y'all and provide new opportunities for our theatre education community!

Theatre Alive Summer Conservatory at Clairemont High School

Stacey at Clairemont has developed a terrific summer program and would like to include a few more kids from other schools to make this a district wide event. It is a great concept in which the students will write their own play with music and the produce it for a live audience. Wendy Maples, from Step Up Theatre, is helping the students develop the piece. They will also have the opportunity to work with a music specialist. And we may even get the play published! We are also working with ROP to film a version of it in a TV studio. If you are in contact with a couple of your great kids who still need a summer opportunity, Stacey is willing to offer scholarships for the $100 fee. It starts next week on June 22. Have the kids contact Stacey directly sallen@sandi.net.

Congratulations and a Fond Farewell!

Two of our own, Dennis Hollenbeck from Scripps Ranch and Joyce Sullivant from Marshall Middle, will be retiring later this month. We thank them for the outstanding work they have done in our field and wish them well as they begin their "Endless Summer." (At least that's how surfer, DH, puts it!)

Sheila Mandock will take over the theatre program at Scripps Ranch and Jeff Russell will step up at Marshall Middle.

Playwrights Project Institutes New Award

"To celebrate the work of educators who have touched the lives of our youth, we are requesting nominations for the second annual Deborah Salzer Excellence in Arts Education Award. We need your help in identifying the deserving people who have made an impact in arts education in our community.

The Deborah Salzer Excellence in Arts Education Award, recognizing outstanding achievement in the field of arts education, will be presented on November 7, 2009 during Lights Up! Playwrights Take the Stage at The Neurosciences Institute in La Jolla. The event will also include a performance of the Playwrights Project’s touring production and the announcement of the winners of our annual California Young Playwrights Contest, whose plays will be produced in the 25^th season of Plays by Young Writers.

Please visit our website to download the Nomination Form, which must be postmarked or delivered to Playwrights Project by July 1, 2009. A jury of educators and theatre professionals selected by Playwrights Project’s Founders Circle will determine the award winner."

2009 - 2010 - That's a Wrap!

I'll be in the office through Friday and then back again starting August 24th. I'll probably do some blogging here and there and keep you posted on the kick-off event for the fall.

Please, as you think of things I can do to support you or just want an ear to bend about an new (or old) idea you have, just shoot me an email.

Respectfully yours -

m.