Arts-in-Education Hosts Engaging Day of Teacher Learning

The CiTi BOCES Arts-in-Education program recently held its semi-annual fine arts professional development day, inviting 115 art and music teachers from across 13 local area districts.

Held at Phoenix’s Emerson J. Dillon Middle School, the day-long event allowed teachers to collaborate and showcase new learning and experiences. Local teachers and visitors presented on topics ranging from engaging students and helping them find their confidence to enhancing cross-curricular education and interacting with the unique traits of “Gen Alpha.”

“These professional learning days are always such a great showcase of the strong arts community we have,” said Christian Oliver, one of the coordinators of the event. “The artistry, excitement for knowledge and the personal connections are what makes these regional Fine Arts PD days so special. To see the support for these days from our administration, teachers and communities brings a focus on what the arts truly provide: a common ground and community for the arts.”

Also in attendance and presenting throughout the day were Kelly Holmes from Morrisville-Eaton, a former New York State Art Teachers Association “Teacher of the Year,” and Brian Wagner-Yeung, the chair for NYSSMA’s Neurodivergent and Accessibility Committee. Speakers from local organizations like the Everson Museum and the REV Theatre shared their own perspectives and insight.

“Working together with colleagues is like having a team of superheroes,” noted a participating teacher reflecting on the day. “We can bounce ideas off each other and get inspired by others’ creativity, making our work with kids even stronger.”