by lindanathan | Nov 21, 2019 | Arts Education, Center for Artistry and Scholarship, Creativity, Equity, Interdisciplinary Learning, Leadership Development, Literacy, Professional Development, Teaching and Learning, Uncategorized
Every now and then it’s important to recommit to why I’m in public education and why I continue to feel hopeful even in such dark times. Yes, funding for public schools continues to be a struggle, particularly for urban schools. After 25 years of high stakes testing,...
by lindanathan | Oct 2, 2019 | Arts Education, Equity, School Visits, Teaching and Learning
Eighteen 6th graders work in small groups or pairs scattered around a large rectangular-shaped classroom. Two students are at the front of the room, near the rug, working independently seated in reclining chairs with their feet on the chair and their knees up to their...
by lindanathan | Apr 3, 2019 | Arts Education, Center for Artistry and Scholarship, Creativity, Equity, Leadership Development, Professional Development
Esperanza Spalding’s visit to Conservatory Lab was a magical moment for students as well as the adults who teach them music on a daily basis. She met the second grade orchestra named for her. She talked about the trust and freedom she saw in their eyes — something in...
by lindanathan | Feb 11, 2019 | Arts Education, Books, Leadership Development, Teaching and Learning
Last week I had the opportunity to give an author talk at the Massachusetts State House Library. When they asked last Fall if I’d be willing, I didn’t hesitate. Even though I didn’t know anything about this author series, I’m a devoted fan of libraries and librarians....
by lindanathan | Nov 30, 2018 | Arts Education, Creativity, Equity, Interdisciplinary Learning, Leadership Development, School Visits, Teaching and Learning
Recently, I traveled to Detroit to speak at the CS Partners annual conference. While there, I became enraged to learn about legislation related to the third grade reading test in Michigan that was passed two years ago by a Republican state legislature. Next year, this...
by lindanathan | Aug 14, 2018 | Arts Education, Boston Arts Academy, Teaching and Learning
When I was headmaster of Boston Arts Academy (BAA) I used to say to my graduating seniors that the success of our school would be measured by the number of BAA alumni that took their place in positions of influence in our community. That has come true. BAA alumni...
