One Month at Magothy

"Art Classes teach kids to: Respect others, start a dialogue, experiment with material, observe, find their voice, self-evaluate, make connection, express themselves, learn from their mistakes, reflect on their work, embrace diversity, persevere, have an opinion, appreciate beauty, break away from stereotypes. envision solutions, value aesthetics, see another point of view, innovate."

...And a fabulous month it has been as I deeply sigh, enjoying the silence planning period brings. I wish I could express how nervous I was my first few days before Christmas break. Before this I had subbed for elementary and high school so the uncertainty of middle school kept me awake at night. The first few days before Christmas break weren't easy by any means (I'm so blessed to for the MRMS staff) but I've learned to love the chaos (and the kids have calmed down to a certain extent.)

I enjoy the adult humor and sarcasm (even though sometimes I have to pretend I don't if it's inappropriate). But something that really gets me about middle school is well, it's in the middle. I remember being that awkward middle schooler who wore strange outfits and homemade headbands (and rocked them, don't judge). But for many of my students that's not the case. I've started posting student work via my Instagram and Instagram stories with the hashtag #makeartmonday because the work is literally THAT good. They're oddly brilliant, so talented and inspired, and mature beyond their years, the work above proves it! One my favorite moments of the last few weeks of 2nd Marking period was doing "experimental art" with my students. One student in particular who had struggled with thinking outside the box and projects asked me before leaving at the end of the day "Can we do this again tomorrow Ms. S???". It really is so hard not get invested. Even on the days they act like they've lost their minds.  I'm teaching them but they're teaching me think outside the box and focus on art I actually like.

Starting a new marking period with a few new classes, I literally love the hunt for new and exciting projects for the kiddies. If you have any great resources (or know of a great resource please please PLEASE share away! 6th through 8th grade ages)