In this intensive and immersive session, teachers will acquire the skills and tools necessary to teach their students using works of art through an engaging and meaningful dialog.
I like many of the words used in that sentence to describe the next week of professional development at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas.
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I work very hard to plan and execute all four of these words for my students. It is not an easy task, and we frequently fail to reach our mark, but we make a concerted effort. I do not want to "pad" lessons with gimmicks, leaving gaps in the schedule that have to be filled with even more "fluff".
Like everything else, there must be a balance. I have to always remember that wise old saying, Kids will be kids. While I want to lead them forward with rigor, I know we must plant a desire for learning first. I know I must protect young minds while developing them. And I understand that rigor does not mean "stumping" them.
I am sure that these four words, as well as the other words that surround them, were carefully selected in describing what we will do, this week. At the same time, for this week, I am the student; I hope the coordinators remember all of those aspects while teaching me, as well.