An Online Art Teacher Conference and Facebook Group

Hello art teacher friends.  I hope you are staying healthy and away from those nasty germs.  I have been overcome by one of these little bugs and was sick all week.  Yes, the dreaded flu.  I only taught one day this week. 🙁  Although, two of the days were actual days off of school (MLK day and a grading day).  Those two days off were spent grading and sneezing in bed.

I wanted to share with you two ways to become connected and learn more as an art teacher.

1.  The Art of Education (Jessica Balsley) is hosting the first ever online national art education conference.  (Maybe it should be called international, because I’m sure if you are outside the U.S. you can join in as well.)  It looks like there are already a bunch of great presentations lined up and you can participate from the comfort of your own home.   Personally, I LOVE going to conferences in person and I would go every year if I could.  However, since money for travel is always a factor, plus now that I’m a mom I really hate to leave Daria any longer than I have to, an online conference is much more convenient.  (I am not affiliated with the Art of Ed and receive no compensation for this post.. I am just a fan of the blog and am a big believer in professional development.)  Professional conferences are not just important for certification credits, but are a great way to be inspired, reflect on your own teaching and look at things in new ways.  As a private school teacher I don’t even have to be certified, but I am doing all of the development hours, so I figured why not keep up my certification.

2.  Art Teachers Facebook Group

For those of you who frequent Facebook, there is a lively and active group for art teachers.  You should totally join!

What about you?  Are you joining the online art teacher conference? Do you have to complete a professional development plan?

I’m interested in hearing about your experiences.