Multicultural Student Achievement Network (MSAN) conference Workshop
Multicultural Student Achievement Network (MSAN) conference bring 175 school leaders to Madison, W, for a program focused on addressing the educator shortage crisis while recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce. THE conference focused on evaluating equity initiatives and utilizing data for systems change.
MSAN is a national coalition of 26 multiracial school districts working together to build the capacity for advocacy skills of students and educational practitioners through communities of practice that positively impact the educational experiences of all students, with an emphasis on Black, Indigenous, and students of color.
Conference Proposal: Artfully Design for Social Justice: A multi-disciplinary curriculum to explore equality and social justice
The Art classroom is responsible for understanding how it develops community to promote identity and safety. In partnership with Art, Social Studies, Reading, and video Journalism, we focus on timely questions of social justice by exploring students’ cultures through different mediums across multiple disciplines.
This cross-curriculum course engages three main components to accomplish. 1) The first component explores the history, art, graphic novels, books, and movies/shows with injustices. 2) The second component will expose students to worldbuilding to consider alternative futures, solutions, conversations, and art forms in social justice and equity. #) The third component is the opportunity for students to design their projects to identify how they seek to apply social justice and equity. How this is done:
Students Interpret current systemic structures through selected works in art and fiction/fantasy texts.
Analyze current art mediums and how they explore/expose social change.
Develop one’s identity, artistic style, abilities, and advocacy voice.
Design artwork that showcases one’s personal experiences with social justice/equity and how the school and greater community can evolve and expand their capacity.
Artifacts will showcase how this curriculum has helped students safely analyze their experiences with social justice/equity and how the school and greater community can create alternative futures, solutions, conversations, and art forms to create change.
Conference participants will:
·Interrogate their current systemic structures and practices with social justice and equity to identify alternative futures, solutions, conversations, and art forms to create change.
Analyze current mediums of art and how they explore/expose social change in their communities.
Understand the unique roles and responsibilities of the learner (artist), instructor, and the broader school learning community by answering the questions: What is working? And why? What is not working? And why not?
Designing Immersive Experiences for Rose Glow Tea Room
Rose Glow Tea Room has invited me to create a series of immersive experiences that help patrons process a wide range of emotions through the meditative practice of tea. These experiences aim to go beyond the typical tea-drinking ritual and delve into a transformative journey of emotional introspection and well-being.
Concept Overview
Objective: The primary goal is to utilize the ancient and calming practice of tea meditation to assist individuals in navigating and understanding their emotions, ultimately fostering a sense of inner peace and self-awareness.
1. Sensory Ambiance:
- Visuals:** Soft lighting, themed decor, and natural elements (such as flowers, leaves, and water features) will set the mood for each emotional theme.
- Sounds:** Gentle, soothing music or natural sounds (like rain, waves, or birdsong) will enhance the meditative atmosphere.
- Aromas:** Fragrances corresponding to each emotion will be subtly infused into the environment.
2. Tea Selection:
A curated selection of teas created by Rose Glow will be offered, each chosen for its specific properties to support emotional balance. Participants will be guided through the unique characteristics of each tea, including its origin, flavor profile, and intended emotional benefits.
3. Mindful Practices:
- Guided Meditation:** Short, themed meditation sessions will be conducted to help participants center their thoughts and connect with their emotions.
- Breathing Exercises:** Techniques that promote relaxation and mindfulness will be integrated into the experience.
4. Interactive Elements:
- Journaling: Participants will be encouraged to write down their thoughts and feelings as they enjoy their tea, facilitating personal reflection and emotional processing.
- Discussion Circles: Small group discussions will be organized to allow participants to share their experiences and insights, fostering a sense of community and support.
Outcome
The immersive experiences at Rose Glow Tea Room will provide a sanctuary for individuals to explore and process their emotions in a supportive and nurturing environment. By integrating the meditative strategies of tea, participants will leave with a renewed sense of balance, clarity, and inner peace.
