Oct 22, 2012

eBook Review: A Vocal AdVocate by Susan Riley

I just finished a new, must-read for art teachers titled A Vocal AdVocate: An Arts Advocacy Workbook and written by Susan Riley.

In a nutshell this eBook is designed for any arts teacher wanting to advocate for his or her own classroom. Riley, founder of Education Closet, devotes her six chapters to advocacy, social media, creating a web presence, the power of networking, professional development and community involvement. Her eBook is neatly laid out, easy to read and full of creative new ideas any art teacher can apply. She even includes a sample assignment at the end of each chapter to encourage you to take your learning to the next level.

Some of her fresh ideas include:

Creating a list of program highlights… showcase what you are already doing!
Providing art classes for colleagues… you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.
Working with teaching artists… let an expert take the reigns from time to time.
Creating a year long advocacy plan… little things you are probably already doing!
Incorporating all kinds of social media into your program… including connections to get you started.
How to get the most out of conferences… get your networking on!
AND MUCH MORE!

Let’s face it; advocacy is part of every art teacher’s life. It can be downright challenging at times, but you are not in it alone! This book left me feeling re-charged and prepared to make my program even stronger and it can do the same for you.

A Vocal AdVocate by Susan Riley is available to download for $4.99 as an ebook. It’s also available in paper copy, too! We liked this book so much, it will be one of the resources for the brand new upcoming AOE Class Advocating for the Arts. If you are looking for even more step-by-step information about advocating for your program, and want to finally make advocacy intentional during every month of the school year, then you will definitely benefit from this course. Sign Up by November 1st!

Be sure to come back tomorrow for a special book giveaway from Education Closet!

Please share with us one QUICK AND SIMPLE thing you do to advocate for your art program.
We can’t wait to see this list of ideas grow…

Dhastings

Hi Heather, Thanks for this resource, it looks really interesting! I find that visual displays outside of the school are great for advocacy and helping tax payers see what we are creating with their support! Also, I write two letters home during the year sharing insight on my program, and explaining some of the mental habits that are introduced and reinforced in the Art Room. I also think there is no better advertisement for the Art program than to be a guest speaker at the PTO meetings and/or School Board Meetings and present a short, eye-opening exercise involving adults in Art. Then elaborate on your program and share your excitement about Art, the students and the curriculum you explore together.
- http://www.theartofed.com/ Heather Crockett
  
  Sounds like you are quite the advocate for the arts! I like that your ideas reach students, parents, administration and the community. Keep up the good work :)
  PS, Make sure to check out Tuesday’s post for a chance to win this book as a giveaway!
Rachelle

Sounds like a must read for any art teacher! Thanks for sharing! :)
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