Sorry Moodle, I have moved on...
I have been using Schoology for the past few months. I am not going to lie and tell you that is has everything I need or that it has been an easy transition. Both are an adjustment; like any new relationship, I am figuring out what works, what doesn't, and how to compromise along the way.
Some things that I have really loved with the change is the ability to give daily updates to students and embed images, links, and reminders within it, the ability to create and store assignments (with standards-based rubrics) and important links, and the ability students have to help each other and foster a positive classroom environment. I have enjoyed using resources like Scholastic Art Magazine and have students research and share their findings on Artists and ideas through the discussion boards. I have also enjoyed how perfectly Artsonia Classroom Mode works within the platform.
Art Teacher Stuff
When I first decided to go into education, whenever I would tell anyone that I was planning to be an Art teacher, they would ask, "Aren't you worried you will not be able to find a job?" For some reason, I never was. I have such a deep passion and commitment to the power of quality Arts education, that it has never been in the realm of possibility that I would not be able to teach it or find a job doing so. I found a job a month after graduating and discovered that even when I did find a job, I would hear the same question, only slightly altered, "Aren't you worried you will lose your job?" And for some reason, I am not. I should be, as I have been pink slipped several times. But I have a faith in what I do because I love it and know its' power to transform lives. I am willing to do whatever it takes to foster that power and expose any willing listener to the importance of Arts education. I use the evidence in the work my peers share with me through our global PLN and the team I get to work with in my district. Their support, ideas, and skill to take teaching to another level and embolden my unwavering belief that what I and so many other Art teachers do on a daily basis is essential for living a quality life and having a deeper understanding of the human condition. It is great to be honored like this by my colleagues and I appreciate it so much. However, I would be doing what I am doing whether I was awarded this or not. I do what I do because it is what I am supposed to do and it brings me an immense amount of joy to share in the struggle and success with my students along the way. See you all on the internets...