We had two full keynote sessions with guest speakers, who were incredible and offered two different takes on our professions, while still in the theme of "Your Voice". One spoke on the importance of empowering our students, even through tragedy to use their voice, and the other on how we as professionals are to use our voice through servant leadership.
We also had several breakout sessions throughout the day. I really appreciated that a large variety of classes were offered. This was perfect for me because I wear all of the hats of my department. I attended sessions on Licensing with an MTI rep, Basic musical theatre dance, stage Makeup color matching, acting through Impulses through the Viewpoint theory, and Wonderful World of Worbla for costuming. There were also classes on aligning curriculum with state standards, but since I am strictly after school now, I opted out of these. But, wow, at the benefit of what this would have been as a classroom teacher! We also had lunches on site, where attendees were encouraged to sit with those of their school level, and a reception. I coincidentally kept running into teachers from my own area of the state, whom I had not met before! I would say my favorite highlight of the weekend was the ability to gain knowledge in all my "hats". Those wearing less hats, could attend more than one class in that area, at least two classes were offered in each area. Vendors of all sorts including conference sponsors were available throughout the day to visit in a designated space. (I bothered the Norcosto folks quite a bit). Board members were also available at the registration desk throughout the conference, which was great for my question regarding student thespian conference registration later this year.
We were greeted at registration with neck-lanyards, a notebook, a tote, a really nice pen, a sample Drama Game book from Theatrefolk, and snacks!! I would have felt like an absolute princess if we also had received a "Georgia Teacher Educator" t-shirt, but I don't want to be greedy, or anything.
But the winner of the prize goes to Brian Curl and his 12 Step Dance Class. He broke choreography down so well, I immediately came home and was able to improve my instruction for my super non-experienced cast. He even had my team mom-now drama assistant dancing, and she swore on the way to the conference I would not have her do such. I wanted to just put him in my pocket and steal him for my club!
https://briancurl.wixsite.com/mysite------------------------------
Analiese Hamm
ECHS Drama Director
Statenville GA
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-27-2019 09:17
From: Brooke Phillips
Subject: Shout Out to Georgia Thespians
This is such a lovely post! We are doing our first teacher PD in a couple months here in Nebraska. Can you elaborate on what you loved the MOST about the Georgia event? Other than their incredible board? What do you think Nebraska should be SURE to offer our teachers so they walk away from the day feeling like you did?
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Brooke Phillips
Omaha NE
Original Message:
Sent: 08-26-2019 10:06
From: Analiese Hamm
Subject: Shout Out to Georgia Thespians
I just wanted to share how grateful I am to be a part of the Educational Theatre Association, as well as the Georgia Thespians. My first five years of teaching drama and directing shows, I was on my own, with no close contacts to reach out to for help. I built a program from the ground up, going in blind. This association, even this discussion board, has help me grow so much as a director and department head, and has helped me better educate my students in the field.
This past weekend, I had the chance to go to the Georgia Theatre Educators Conference. While it was my first, this was the third year of the conference, and I want to compliment the Georgia Chapter on their professionalism and organization of this conference (as well as our student Thespian conference in the spring), I brag about these events to every other education/professional development organizer I meet. Thank you to Paul Hampton, the Chapter Director, and his board, for providing a two day opportunity to reach out to other educators (in an environment where we are not chasing around our students). If your state does not offer this to your state educators, it is time to contact your chapter director!
Furthermore, thanks to all of you, the leaders of this association, the state chapter directors, the troupe directors, even those who are like me, offering the best of your limited knowledge to those seeking help on this board. And thank you all, ultimately, for investing time in our beloved drama "nerd" children, who are all just seeking means of positive expression.
Happy Monday, and Happy Directing!
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Analiese Hamm
ECHS Drama Director
Statenville GA
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