KID smART's Arts & Education Conference
Planning the KID smART Arts & Education Conference was an entirely new adventure for our team. As first-time organizers of such a significant event, we were a bundle of excitement and nerves, wondering if everything would come together as we hoped. We were eager to see if attendees would find the sessions and workshops valuable, and we poured our hearts into creating an experience that would be meaningful and inspiring for everyone involved.
From the outset, our goal was to offer a diverse array of workshops and sessions that would spark joy and excite educators. In addition to our own team of experts, we brought together twelve of our community partners to cover various topics, from podcasting to culturally responsive teaching. These sessions were designed to provide practical tools and strategies that educators could immediately apply in their classrooms. Participants had the chance to dive into hands-on activities, exchange ideas, and explore new approaches to their teaching practices, gaining valuable insights and inspiration. We're excited to see how educators bring their findings into their classrooms and communities.
Our keynote speaker, Krystal Hardy-Allen, played a crucial role in setting the tone for the conference. She brought fresh perspectives on how the arts can enhance students' critical thinking, empathy, and resilience. Her talk was informative and deeply inspiring, setting a high bar for the rest of the event.
Hearing from attendees about their experiences was incredibly rewarding. One person shared, "This conference was so uplifting, it took me out of my comfort zone and opened me up to a whole new world of possibilities." Many described how the conference helped them connect with others, saying things like, "These past three days have been so magical that it really pulled me out of my shell. I've made new friends and had a wonderful experience." The excitement was palpable, with one attendee noting, "I've been overwhelmed with the positive energy, love, and creativity that is being put into educators and children of our city." Our favorite of them all? “THIS FEELS LIKE SUMMER CAMP!!!”
“THIS FEELS LIKE SUMMER CAMP!!!”
One of the most exciting moments came during our Advocacy Day. We were honored to be joined by Jeannette McCune from the Kennedy Center, who shared invaluable insights on how to advocate for the arts at the policy level. This session set the stage for a rich and engaging panel discussion featuring Sayde F. Finkel, Director of Legislative & Public Policy for the Office of City Council Chair Helena Moreno; Flagboy Giz, New Orleans Artist and Culture Bearer; Brandon Ferguson, Principal at the International School of Louisiana-Westbank Campus; and Pamela Blackmon from Preservation Hall Foundation. The panel explored what New Orleans needs in terms of arts education policy and funding, offering a platform for attendees to ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue. Our Bloomberg Arts Interns also participated in the Q&A session, bringing forward student voice and sharing what they hope to see in their schools and classrooms. The discussions were rich and insightful, shedding light on the future of arts education in our city.
Ultimately, the KID smART Arts & Education Conference was more than just an event; it was a step toward a more creative and inclusive approach to education. The enthusiasm and dedication of everyone involved made it a truly special occasion. As we look forward to the future, we are excited about continuing to play a role in shaping imaginative, compassionate, and well-rounded students through the arts.
