“We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.”
Building Creative Confidence
No matter what field students go into, the ability to speak clearly and present themselves in a confident manner are essential to success. Whether a doctor dealing with patients, a lawyer in the courtroom, a business person giving a presentation, or a McDonald’s cashier waiting on customers…eye contact, diction, inflection, and poise are just a few of the public speaking skills that are required to be successful. Academic intelligence and content knowledge are not enough in the 21st century. Students need to boldly express their thoughts and ideas, confidently question what they don't understand, and intelligently share their opinions and beliefs. In doing so, these young people will be able to stand up for themselves and others, and stand out as effective and compassionate leaders.
Drama does not just build public speaking skills. It plays an important role in building self-confidence, teamwork, focus, and communication skills. We joke that there is already enough “drama” in the lives middle and high school students. I claim that we don’t create the “drama,” we focus it. We value the opportunity to “play” and perform in a safe and supportive environment, where risks can be taken and comfort zones expanded. As I have ventured beyond being a Drama teacher to substitute teaching in a variety of classroom settings, I intentionally bring my experience and passion for the performing arts into my approach. Building creative confidence is not simply the task of Arts educators in Arts classrooms. Through substitute teaching, I seek to integrate character development and unlock life skills through the strategies that I use to engage and empower the students.
Beyond the Classroom
My passion for teaching does not stop at the classroom. In fact, some of my most rewarding experiences working with young people have come from my involvement beyond the walls of school. After school and on the weekends, I share my passion for theatre with children of all ages, directing and choreographing (and sometimes performing in) plays and musicals. Over the summer, I have been connected to Red Arrow Camp for boys for over two decades. On the weekend, I mentor youth and young adults in the development of their faith within the context of my church. You see, learning is not contained to the classroom. It thrives on the stage and the sports field, it is nurtured on Sunday mornings and weekday evenings. It is emphasized throughout the school year and experienced outside, playing beneath the summer sun. Purpose-Driven Learning is an every day opportunity…found in moments, sought in the unexpected, and experienced in exciting and diverse ways.
