Pink: Design
Whoops, turns out I read two chapters in the wrong order, so my thoughts on the Design chapter are coming after the presentation. First, I was absolutely inspired by CHAD public school. I have never heard of it before, and reading about it was a heartwarming experience. It's great news that there are some schools who value the arts and recognize their ability to help students excel in other areas. I was also struck by their attendance rates in comparison to other area schools. As a teacher in a very low income area (over 90% free and reduced lunch), I can easily empathize with the text. Our school, who has not had an attendance policy, is finally adopting one next year, and I hope that will help to solve some of the issue with kids skipping school. I believe that teachers can make a difference in making their kids want to be at school, and I know that I have done so for some of my students this past year. Allowing them to be creative, make independent decisions, and feel comfortable in their environment is key to encouraging attendance. I loved the quote from the text that said, "No matter what path these students [at CHAD] pursue, their experience at this school will enhance their ability to solve problems, understand others, and appreciate the world around them--essential abilities in the Conceptual Age (74)." I think it is important to give Design-based experiences to students because it shows them that there truly are "real world" careers in art. Without these kinds of experiences, students are sometimes left thinking that they can only succeed in art if they are able to paint like Monet. Again, I am loving this book and I really enjoyed the class on Design, thanks for the experience!
I love the CHAD school section as well. What really struck me were the stats on the students coming in. Some were almost illiterate and the learning environment made a future possible. They sent those down and out kids that were left in the gap to RISD. I get verklempt thinking about it! I agree with you about showing our students that you do not have to be Picasso to make money being creative. You also don't have to be great at going to school. Lots of very intelligent people are not good at schooling. There is an awesome poster that lists myriads of avenues and opportunities in the arts. Students are always excited to pursue it!
ReplyDeleteI also never heard of the CHAD school. I love how they create real life situations for there students and have them solve the problems. Shouldn't all schools be doing this?
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