Sep 17, 2012

Getting Out of the Art Room Bubble

Recently, Jessica wrote an article about the importance of forming friendships at work. I couldn’t agree more, but being in the art room (or on the art cart) often makes it difficult to create those meaningful relationships.

Between setting up elaborate lessons, dealing with busy schedules and taking on extra duties, there’s just not much time leftover for socializing in our days. That’s why I’m excited to tell you that making connections doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. Today I’d love to share a few easy tips to start you off on the right foot this school year. You’ll start feeling like a part of the school community in no time!

Do you find that it’s difficult for you to get out of your “art bubble” at school?

What are some ways you have made meaningful connections with others?

erica

Good morning! It’s saying your video is private I think you have to unlock it
- http://www.theartofed.com/ Jessica Balsley
  
  It’s live!
http://www.theartofed.com/ Jessica Balsley

One thing I always do is eat lunch with the other teachers. There might be one day a week that I would work through lunch, but the adult interaction really helps me push through my day. You are so right about reaching out to someone. Just recently I reached out to a friend and the outcome was positive. You never know until you ask!
- http://www.artbke.blogspot.com/ Amanda Heyn
  
  I agree. Lunch is so important. If I don’t get out of my room, I feel crazy by the end of the day!
  - Njennings
    
    I have recently emailed all teachers in our school and asked them to let me know if their students have done any artwork within their classrooms so that I could photograph it and upload to Artsonia online gallery. In this way we get to talk about what their students have done and creating an exhibit for them records art integration with other subjects. I get to know my students better as well and can comment on their work I’ve seen elsewhere in the school.
    - http://www.artbke.blogspot.com/ Amanda Heyn
      
      What a cool idea. I love that you are engaging kids inside AND outside of the art room! Having those discussions with other staff members also sounds like a great way to show them the importance of art making.
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=535233572 Andrea Fuentes
  
  I second that; I used to always eat at my desk (Rushing of course) and now make an effort to join colleagues in the teacher’s lounge so we get to know each other.
erica

You are adorable! I can’t imagine that it would take much effort to make friends as you seem really nice. The videos are fun to see way to meet the writers:)
- http://www.artbke.blogspot.com/ Amanda Heyn
  
  Thanks, Erica! It’s so fun to connect with other art teachers here on AOE. We CAN be virtual friends :)