I am not going to lie and say I am totally ready for what the next few days bring. I am still working my way out of a pre-Spring slump and I am super excited to fully loose the grip of the Winter Blues when I meet up with my favorite teachers from across the country tomorrow!
This year marks my 4th NAEA and I have a feeling it is going to be better than ever!
To reflect on the awesomeness that is going to ensue, here is a recap of some of my tips from last year and how I am planning to apply it this time around:
This year marks my 4th NAEA and I have a feeling it is going to be better than ever!
To reflect on the awesomeness that is going to ensue, here is a recap of some of my tips from last year and how I am planning to apply it this time around:
1. Connect
Image by Rob Sandagata
One of my favorite things to do at any conference is connect with others whom I normally chat with over posts on Facebook or Twitter face to face. I am excited to say I even get to present with a few of the folks who started out as people I admired from afar online. I am really excited to get to see the "gang" again as we all get together, many sporting the #arstedpln shirts as designed below by Tales From The Traveling Art Teacher, Heidi O'Hanley.
2. Include Others
It was super fun to encourage my sister and friend to join the NAEA madness over the last two years. This year, I am excited to see some more local MI teachers at the conference for the first time this year, taking advantage of the location being so close! I cannot wait to get with some of my colleagues after we get back to our schools and share resources and take-aways from the weekend!
3. Be Inspired
It is hard to predict exactly how inspiration is going take shape as I imagine the conference. I know that the vendors will not disappoint with their displays and samples. I know that the sessions I have lined up using the NAEA App will also allow me to leave Chicago with a head full of ideas that will energize me through the rest of the school year!
4. Explore the City
Being from Michigan, I have visited the Windy City many times over the years. Although I have been there a bunch, I am excited to venture off to new places and experience new adventures with my fellow art teachers. I am especially excited to hang out with local teachers who have insights in what needs to be experienced while in town.
5. Give it Up
I am very excited to present in two sessions this year. It is so important to share your work with others and gain the same when others share with you. I always feel like I get way more than I give at these conferences and I am super excited to take those ideas back to my students.
If you get a chance, come and see me present with an all-star line-up on Friday and Saturday morning!
If you get a chance, come and see me present with an all-star line-up on Friday and Saturday morning!
Friday
Saturday
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I hope those tips help you have a great #NAEA16! Above all, have safe travels to Chicago and enjoy the time to gather with other teachers to celebrate our craft! If you are unable to attend, you can follow the fun on Twitter.
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