During the month of December I had the privilege of enjoying the many activities/projects in OCSU centered on the arts. Here are just a few of them, I know there were many more that I haven’t mentioned.
Holiday Window Painting by LR students
The art students at LR once again went out into the community and did some marvelous seasonal window painting. As they demonstrated all the skills they’ve learned in art class, they showcased their considerable talent. This is surely an authentic performance assessment and definitely brightened up store windows in our community. A big shout-out to art teacher Stephanie Harper for providing this opportunity for our students!
Holiday Window Painting by LR students
The art students at LR once again went out into the community and did some marvelous seasonal window painting. As they demonstrated all the skills they’ve learned in art class, they showcased their considerable talent. This is surely an authentic performance assessment and definitely brightened up store windows in our community. A big shout-out to art teacher Stephanie Harper for providing this opportunity for our students!
OCSU Elementary/Middle School Band and Chorus Winter Concert
It is so much fun to attend this concert each December. Our elementary/middle school music teachers work wonders with our beginning musicians. Bringing together students from all of our district schools and leading them in putting on a concert that is enjoyable for the audience is no small feat. I look forward to watching as these musicians hone their talent and perform in future years. Thank-you to music teachers, Anna Kennedy, Amy Newton, and Chantilly Larose for all the time and effort you put into this!
It is so much fun to attend this concert each December. Our elementary/middle school music teachers work wonders with our beginning musicians. Bringing together students from all of our district schools and leading them in putting on a concert that is enjoyable for the audience is no small feat. I look forward to watching as these musicians hone their talent and perform in future years. Thank-you to music teachers, Anna Kennedy, Amy Newton, and Chantilly Larose for all the time and effort you put into this!
Lake Region Winter Concert
This concert, featuring all the different music groups from Lake Region, has become a holiday favorite of mine. From familiar songs to ones that I haven’t heard before, each one is a joy to listen to. The performance showcases talented soloists and ensembles, and even student composers and conductors. Lake Region’s own “Dr. D” is a master of her craft and brings out the best in her students. What a wonderful way to spend a winter evening!
This concert, featuring all the different music groups from Lake Region, has become a holiday favorite of mine. From familiar songs to ones that I haven’t heard before, each one is a joy to listen to. The performance showcases talented soloists and ensembles, and even student composers and conductors. Lake Region’s own “Dr. D” is a master of her craft and brings out the best in her students. What a wonderful way to spend a winter evening!
,Lake Region Cooking Club
While not really one of “the arts”, I just have to recognize the Lake Region cooking club, facilitated by teacher, Lee Penniman (thanks, Lee!). At one of the December Board meetings, we were treated to delicious appetizers and holiday goodies, all prepared and served by the students in the cooking club. There was even a birthday cake for Mr. Mess! The students were clearly enjoying themselves, and it was fun to listen to them describe the ingredients in each item and how they prepared it. What a wonderful learning opportunity, and again, having an authentic audience for their goodies really supports students in showcasing their best work.
While not really one of “the arts”, I just have to recognize the Lake Region cooking club, facilitated by teacher, Lee Penniman (thanks, Lee!). At one of the December Board meetings, we were treated to delicious appetizers and holiday goodies, all prepared and served by the students in the cooking club. There was even a birthday cake for Mr. Mess! The students were clearly enjoying themselves, and it was fun to listen to them describe the ingredients in each item and how they prepared it. What a wonderful learning opportunity, and again, having an authentic audience for their goodies really supports students in showcasing their best work.
Carolers
During the last week before the holiday break, the staff at central office was treated to caroling by two different groups. One was a group of high school students from LR and the other was a group of PreK students from our very own “yellow room”. As we all stepped away from our desks for a few minutes to listen to the carolers, it was a great reminder of why we do what we do – it’s all about the students! Thanks to all who brightened our day with song – we really appreciated it!
During the last week before the holiday break, the staff at central office was treated to caroling by two different groups. One was a group of high school students from LR and the other was a group of PreK students from our very own “yellow room”. As we all stepped away from our desks for a few minutes to listen to the carolers, it was a great reminder of why we do what we do – it’s all about the students! Thanks to all who brightened our day with song – we really appreciated it!
As I reflected on these activities, and as I worked with Boards on budgeting during the month of December, I’m proud to say that there wasn’t one budget discussion that focused on eliminating the arts from our schools. Watching the pride on students’ faces, the fun they were having, and the confidence they were building, reinforces the idea that the arts are a critical component of student learning. We are extremely fortunate to have Boards and communities that support that idea.
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