Summer Institute 2005
Why would 75 teachers devote an entire week to teaching subjects not tested on the ISAT? Perhaps because they understand that social and emotional growth can best be achieved through the arts. Learning to incorporate the arts into the general elementary classroom is essential, and perhaps more important today than ever. Into this scenario enters ArtsPowered Schools Summer Institute 2005.
Ten teams of 6-10 teachers gathered at the Albertson College of Idaho campus and delved into creative activities, such as making monochromatic table sculpture centerpieces with “found” objects during opening events. They listened to Korean singers and dancers and attended the Idaho Shakespeare Festival for a performance of “She Stoops to Conquer.” The key to firsthand artistic experience, in the ArtsPowered mode, lies in the active involvement of the participant, whether teacher or elementary child.

Some of the comments from the 2005 attendees:
“I am definitely an advocate for ArtsPowered Schools. I will speak to other teachers at my school . . . to see if we can bring our own team next year. Thanks again for a great class. I left feeling like an ‘artist’!” (Trina Ciocca)
“This was a very engaging and useful workshop. I am excited to use these ideas in my classroom. Thanks.” (Laura Galey)
“I would like to tell you how much I enjoyed the ArtsPowered Summer Institute. I learned so much and got a much-needed ‘shot in the arm’ for teaching in general. . . . Your hard work was very evident. I would love to let people know how valuable this program is (in fact, I intend to attend it each year from now on.” (Tamela Johns)
“I would just like to say ‘thanks’ for the great time I had at the ArtsPowered Summer Institute. You were a great host! Most importantly, I learned a great deal about how to incorporate the arts into core lessons and am very anxious to use what I learned. I am really excited to try out the lessons and am already thinking how to use what I learned. . ..” (Chris Hiroto)