My philosophy for working with students is that all children are
gifted and that it is part of my work to help them discover
those gifts. Whether it’s drama, music, dance, or visual art,
students learn not only the art form but about themselves
through collaboration and cooperation. We may interview literary
characters through a “talk show” format, explore the impact that
hip hop has had on the global economy, learn about the Harlem
Renaissance through dances like the “Lindy Hop, Susie Q, and
Charleston”, or create a singing quilt devoted to water
conservation. No matter what the project or topic, students are
called on to strengthen their critical thinking, writing, and
reading skills through the arts. Each residency program is
tailored to the needs and requests of the individual classroom
teacher. One of my favorite residencies involved creative
writing, music, and history. Students in the 3rd grade were lead
by their classroom teacher in researching explorers that had a
significant impact on their state’s