arts education

Florida Story Camp Day 3 – Saturday, March 27, 2010

by dlcasas on March 29, 2010

3-27-10 Dianne with the Youthful Voices tellers - awesome!

3-27-10 Dianne with the Youthful Voices tellers - awesome!

Friends:

Florida Story Camp was a wonderful experience. Saturday was the last full day of camp. On Saturday, I taught my Story Fest workshop using my signature method of story theater in which everyone in the group participates. We began with individual role playing, where workshop participants acted out roles with scarves.

3-27-10 A little old "woman" in my Story Fest workshop

Then we moved into partner role playing.

3-27-10 A mechanic fixing his car and having fun doing it too!

3-27-10 A mechanic fixing his car and having fun doing it too!

After a few partner exercises, we moved into group role playing, which was a lot of fun!

3-27-10 A group portraying a kicker kicking the football through the goal posts

3-27-10 A group portraying a kicker kicking the football through the goal posts

The class culminated with a group performance of a story theater, “The Frog and the Ox,” an Aesop fable. Individual storytellers told the story while the story chorus sang and danced their role. It was delightful to see the whole group come together to portray the story.

3-27-10 The Story Fest group performs The Frog and the Ox

3-27-10 The Story Fest group performs The Frog and the Ox

After my morning workshop, I participated in the Storytelling in Higher Education Global Storytelling workshop. It is a newly formed initiative designed to gather and grow information about global storytelling and how it can positively affect communities. It was a wonderful workshop brimming with ideas and possibilities. Following Global Storytelling, I was invited to have lunch with the Youthful Voices tellers. Boy, are they an AMAZING group of students!! I got to know these talented bunch of students and had fun too!

3-27-10 Dianne and the youth tellers show off their shoes!

3-27-10 Dianne and the youth tellers show off their shoes!

After lunch, it was off to teach another Story Fest workshop. It was just as full as the first. :)

3-27-10 Jane Crouse plays a boy caught stealing an apple from a neighbor's tree

3-27-10 Jane Crouse plays a boy caught stealing an apple from a neighbor's tree

Again we did the role playing exercise. Here are two tellers having too much fun being a woman walking her dog in Central Park! (Yes, the dog is doing her “business.” hahaha)

3-27-10 Ann Scroggie walks her dog in Central Park

3-27-10 Ann Scroggie walks her dog in Central Park

Then we moved into group role playing. Here, a group demonstrates their ability to re-enact a Mardi Gras parade with a king on a float and Mardi Gras revelers.

3-27-10 A group portrays a king on a Mardi Gras float

3-27-10 A group portrays a king on a Mardi Gras float

In the last portion of the workshop, they created a story theater and performed it. This second group performed, “The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking,” an East Indian folktale.

3-27-10 The second Story Fest class performs The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

3-27-10 The second Story Fest class performs The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

On Saturday evening, we had the privilege of watching the Youthful Voices perform. I was blown away by their talent and stage presence! They were phenomenal! Good job Nathaniel, Erica, Leah, Camron, Hope, Julissa and their fabulous emcee, Jeffrey. Afterward, it was the concert of the featured tellers: Ada Forney, Tamara Green, Susan Klein, Dan Keding, Eth-Noh-Tec, and lil ole me.

3-27-10 Saturday Night Storytelling Concert with featured tellers

3-27-10 Saturday Night Storytelling Concert with featured tellers

I told “The Ghost of Mabel Gable” for my youth teller friends and they LOVED it! Thanks, guys! Following the concert, there was a reception (with food) and autographing. Sunday morning was the last concert and it was wonderfully inspirational. I still feel like I need to take a deep breath…

Thank you, Florida Storytelling Association for allowing me to be part of your amazing Florida Story Camp conference. I made new lifelong friends and am enriched by the many souls that crossed and intersected my path in Leesburg, Florida. I wish I could name all the individual people who made such a difference in my life but there are too many!! And how blessed am I?!! I look forward to one day returning to Florida Story Camp.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Strehle Elementary Story Fest Residency Day 10 Final Day – Wednesday, February 10, 2010

by dlcasas on February 11, 2010

2-10-10 Flowers delivered to Strehle teachers and staff from Dianne

2-10-10 Flowers delivered to Strehle teachers and staff from Dianne

Friends:

Wednesday was my last day for my Story Fest Residency at Strehle. It was the day my upper grades performed: third, fourth, and fifth. First, my fifth graders performed for second grade. They did a great job and the second graders loved their performances. Two out of my three fifth classes performed their entire story without scripts. It was so cool to see the students rap and dance to the beat of a “beat master,” who created a beat with a pencil and a fist on a desk.

2-10-10 Ms. Walter's 5th grade class performs The Ant and the Grasshopper

2-10-10 Ms. Walter's 5th grade class performs The Ant and the Grasshopper

Next my third graders performed for PK and Kindergarten classes. They did a great job and I loved seeing their stories come to life. It’s amazing that I only had three 45 minute periods to pull these performances together. I love how my method of story theater fosters cooperation, communication, and collaboration.

2-10-10 Ms. Guidry's third grade class performs The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

2-10-10 Ms. Guidry's third grade class performs The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

After lunch, my fourth graders performed. After struggling with some of the classes in rehearsals, they surprised and delighted me with incredible performances. “The Little Red Hen” and “The Tortoise and the Hare” had great beats, cool raps that the students created, and fun dance moves that had the first graders practically on their feet! It was a magical moment to see my performing students connecting with their audience. I loved it!

2-10-10 Fourth graders perform for first graders on Story Fest Day

2-10-10 Fourth graders perform for first graders on Story Fest Day

In the afternoon, PK did their annual Mardi Gras parade through the halls for all the students. It was so cute. They beat drums, wore crowns, and threw beads to spectators. Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

2-10-10 PK marches the halls in their Strehle Mardi Gras parade

2-10-10 PK marches the halls in their Strehle Mardi Gras parade

I treated the teachers to Krispy Kreme Donuts and had flowers delivered to thank them for having me at their school. I love the teachers and staff at Strehle. It feels like a second home to me!

2-10-10 (L-R) Fourth grade teachers, Ms. Landry (sitting), Ms. Till, and Ms. Creecy

2-10-10 (L-R) Fourth grade teachers, Ms. Landry (sitting), Ms. Till, and Ms. Creecy

I appreciate all the work the students of Strehle put into their performances. It was a blast and I loved every day I spent at the school.

2-10-10 A fourth grade student takes a picture with Ms. Dianne

2-10-10 A fourth grade student takes a picture with Ms. Dianne

Good work and I hope to see you next year, Strehle! You are stars!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Strehle Elementary Story Fest Day 4 – Thursday, January 28, 2010

by dlcasas on January 28, 2010

1-28-10 Ms. Clausing's kindergarten class delights in the story, Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach!

1-28-10 Ms. Clausing's kindergarten class delights in the story, Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach!

Friends:

Today was my fourth day in residency at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana, doing my Story Fest story theater activities. It was Pajama Day and teacher and students were dressed in the cutest jammies! My first class was a special ed Pre-K class. I told the story of “Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle” and did movement with scarves to world music. They did very well, moving to the music with their scarves.

1-28-10 Working with Ms. Davis' PK Special Ed

1-28-10 Working with Ms. Davis' PK Special Ed

My next class was Ms. Jones’ kindergarten class. The kindergarteners loved the story of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. They were singing and dancing to the song and had a blast. Afterwards, we explored world music through scarves. It was a fun visit. I love the wonderment of the children when they are that young!

1-28-10 Telling Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach to Ms. Jones' kindergarten class

1-28-10 Telling Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach to Ms. Jones' kindergarten class

When I arrived at my next kindergarten class, Ms. Clausing’s little students were sitting on the carpet, criss cross applesauce, waiting for me. They were so quiet – until I started telling Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. They loved Madame Poulet’s voice and antics. They laughted themselves silly. Then we danced with the scarves.

1-28-10 Ms. Clausing's kindergarten class dances La Morenada, creating butterflies, with scarves

1-28-10 Ms. Clausing's kindergarten class dances La Morenada, creating butterflies, with scarves

Next, it was on to fifth grade to see Ms. Williams’ students. The students rehearsed their story, “The Lion and the Mouse.” It took a while to figure out a beat for the story chorus, but once they did, it was great. Unfortunately, we ran out of time and were unable to rehearse the story in its entirety. Fortunately, I have another visit with their class scheduled for next week.

1-28-10 Ms. Williams' 4th grade storytellers rehears their part

1-28-10 Ms. Williams' 4th grade storytellers rehears their part

After lunch, I visited Ms. Mauer’s first grade class for the second time. As soon as I walked in, they said, “Mr. Roach” in that “roachy” sounding voice. This time, I told the story of Sody Sallyraytus and they loved it. We culminated with creative movement and dance to jazz music. Talk about a good time!

1-28-10 Ms. Mauer's class dances with scarves

1-28-10 Ms. Mauer's class dances with scarves

Then it was on to Ms. Till’s class. The class is very large and very chatty. Today, they were really into talking amongst themselves in little groups and it was a challenge to settle them down. There are some self-control issues and I had to send one of the girls outside in the hall to “check” her attitude. When we finally were able to work, the class did a good job coming up with a fun story chorus and beat for their rap. There are a lot of creative students in Ms. Till’s class; they just lack self-discipline. With a firm hand, I was able to guide them through the entire story. It still needs to be polished. Thank goodness we have another class visit before our performance. I did have some outstanding students in the class – storytellers who learned their parts by heart. There were 2 boys and a girl. I gave them a special treat: an autographed bookmark. :)

1-28-10 A student in Ms. Till's third grade tells his part of the story without his script

1-28-10 A student in Ms. Till's third grade tells his part of the story without his script

My final class of the day was Ms. Johnson’s third grade class. When I walked into the room, the students were in their seats with their scripts on their desks, ready to work. It was such a pleasure working with this group of students. The last time I went into their class, they were a little rambunctious. But this time, they were so different! They were a model class. Four of the boys told me that they worked together outside of class to create a dance for the story chorus. It was awesome and I am so excited about what this class is going to do! There is expressive storytelling, rapping, a beat, and a fully choreographed routine. While I guided the students, they really came up with all the ideas. It was a delight to end my day in Ms. Johnson’s class. To reward them for their good work, I gave them all Madame Poulet bookmarks. Thank you, Ms. Johnson’s class, for this happy grin I am wearing today! You did a phenomenal job!

1-28-10 The story chorus in Ms. Johson's 3rd grade class POPS!

1-28-10 The story chorus in Ms. Johson's 3rd grade class POPS!

I am off on Friday and Monday. I was supposed to be taking a trip to New York for a conference. Circumstances changed and I am not going. However, I am taking a professional development class on Saturday in New Orleans. I look forward to returning to Strehle. The students and staff of Strehle are so wonderful. I love working with this school!

1-28-10 Ms. Creecy's 4th graders take time for a group pajama picture

1-28-10 Ms. Creecy's 4th graders take time for a group pajama picture

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Strehle Elementary Story Fest Residency Day 3 – Wednesday, January 27, 2010

by dlcasas on January 27, 2010

1-27-10 Showing Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach book to Ms. King's Kindergarten class

1-27-10 Showing Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach book to Ms. King's Kindergarten class

Friends:

It was my third Story Fest residency day at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana. My day began in 5th grade with Ms. Walter’s students. I really enjoyed working with this group. They totally energized my day. They cooperated, communicated and collaborated to create a wonderful story theater. Their story was “The Ant and the Grasshopper” and they were so creative, coming up with a cool rap with a beat and a colorful twist of their scarves. Even the teachers were feeling the beat!

1-27-10 Ms. Walter's 5th graders create a story chorus with scarves for the story, The Ant and the Grasshopper. Storytellers are in the background.

1-27-10 Ms. Walter's 5th graders create a story chorus with scarves for the story, The Ant and the Grasshopper. Storytellers are in the background.

My second class was Ms. Guidry’s third grade class. Ms. Guidry was out of class today and her students were not on their usual best behavior. It was a challenge settling them down. I even had to send one of the students to the office for poor behavior. Still, we managed to rehearse their story, “The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking.” Ironically, it was the class’ talking that was the issue!

1-27-10 Ms. Guidry's 3rd grade class creates a story chorus for The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

1-27-10 Ms. Guidry's 3rd grade class creates a story chorus for The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking

Next, it was on to kindergarten and Ms. King’s class. They loved my telling of Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach. It was so much fun. They laughed so much. I even gave the class a preview of my new book, Mama’s Bayou.

1-27-10 Being Madame Poulet for Ms. King's Kindergarten class

1-27-10 Being Madame Poulet for Ms. King's Kindergarten class

After kindergarten, I saw Ms. Walker’s students in 5th grade. Again, the 5th graders rocked. They were so wonderful, creating the coolest raps and motions. There was such enthusiasm in the class. Even the most reserved students in the class participated and I was so pleased with the end result. I am sooo looking forward to seeing 5th grade perform!

1-27-10 Ms. Walker's 5th grade students pop like popcorn in Paul Bunyan and the Great Popcorn Blizzard

1-27-10 Ms. Walker's 5th grade students pop like popcorn in Paul Bunyan and the Great Popcorn Blizzard

After lunch, I looked at the wrong scheduled and accidentally went to Ms. Vega’s room. When I discovered the mistake, I had to leave to go to Ms. Hervey’s first grade class. The class and Ms. Vega were so disappointed that I was leaving! It feels so good to be loved like that! :)

I went to Ms. Hervey’s class and the students remembered me from kindergarten. I told Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach and the class loved it. They danced, sang, and laughed like crazy. Then, we used scarves and dance “La Morenada.”

1-27-10 Ms. Hervey's 1st graders dance "La Morenada"

It was on to Ms. Creecy’s fourth grade class. When I arrived in class, two of the students were so excited to show me their art. I even received an original piece of art, a frog, from these two boys. How cool is that?!

1-27-10 4th grade students in Ms. Creecy's class create beautiful art!

1-27-10 4th grade students in Ms. Creecy's class create beautiful art!

Then it was time to rehearse our story theater. This class did a phenomenal job creating their story chorus for “The Tortoise and the Hare.” Their chorus was so catchy that I found myself singing it the rest of the day! Great work, Ms. Creecy’s class. I am very pleased with your teamwork!

1-27-10 Ms. Creecy's 4th grade class!

1-27-10 Ms. Creecy's 4th grade class!

Tonight, I received an email from students in Ms. Creecy’s class. They were so sweet:

“Hi, Ms. Dianne. I am in Ms. Creecy’s class, I just wanted to tell you thank you for doing those fun things you did with us. The tortoise and the hare beat sounded really good. I can’t wait to perform it! When you read this, I hope you remember me when you come back to Catherine Strehle and Ms. Creecy’s class. Warmly, Ashlyn L.”

“Hello. I am Bailee from Ms. Creecy’s class. I know you are a good storyteller. I so love your books.”

Thank you, Ashlyn and Bailee for your wonderful emails. You touched my heart and I appreciate your taking the time to send me a note. You and your classmates did a fabulous job and I am also excited about seeing your class perform “The Tortoise and the Hare.”

I ended my day in another fourth grade class, Ms. Landry’s class. They also did a great job with their story. They are performing “The Little Red Hen” and it is so cute! I love their chorus as well. They added dance moves and really rocked the chorus. Despite the fact that I had to send two students to the office, the class did some great work together. I look forward to seeing the presentation of these stories!

1-27-10 Ms. Landry's 4th graders rehearse their story chorus for The Little Red Hen

1-27-10 Ms. Landry's 4th graders rehearse their story chorus for The Little Red Hen

Strehle has the best teachers. I love them all! Here is Ms. Creecy and Ms. Wolf, such beauties! I love coming to Strehle. There is such a “family” atmosphere amongst the teachers, staff, and students. I love the teachers’ and staff’s attitude. They have opened their arms and welcomed me into the Strehle family. I always leave the school with a giant smile on my face.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Strehle Elementary Story Fest Residency Day 1 – Monday, January 25, 2010

by dlcasas on January 25, 2010

1-25-10 4th grade teacher, Ms. Landry, walks her "dog"

Friends:

Today I began a 2 week residency at Strehle Elementary in Avondale, Louisiana. This is my third year at the school. I am doing my Story Fest residency, in which I work with the student doing drama exercises and culminating in story theater performances. The classes are each assigned a story, with parts for individual storytellers and a story chorus.

My first class was Ms. Walker’s 5th grade class. They were a great group to work with, and really participated in the exercises. I demonstrated the “Storyteller’s Tool Kit,” with the four tools they have readily available: 1) imagination, 2) body, 3) face and 4) voice. All my upper grades did individual, partner, and group role playing exercises. Ms. Walker’s class was assigned the story, “Paul Bunyan and the Great Popcorn Blizzard.” They were able to formulate some of the chorus with a rap and it came out great!

1-25-10 Ms. Walker's 5th graders portray a Mardi Gras parade with king on a float

1-25-10 Ms. Walker's 5th graders portray a Mardi Gras parade with king on a float

Next, I went on to Ms. Guidry’s 3rd grade class. They were so respectful and excited to see me. Many of the students remembered me from years past and looked forward to the activity. They did such a great job with their drama activity. The class did a great job communicating and collaborating and came up with such a fun story chorus for their story, “The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking.” I can’t wait to see it all come together!

1-25-10 Ms. Guidry's 3rd graders portray a field goal, kicking a football through the goal posts

1-25-10 Ms. Guidry's 3rd graders portray a field goal, kicking a football through the goal posts

Ms. Walter’s 5th grade class was my next stop. Again, I had a great time with the students. They really enjoyed the activities. Using a beat created by a student, they came up with a fun rap for their story, “The Ant and the Grasshopper.”

1-25-10 Ms. Walter's 5th grade class playing a cowboy riding a horse (look at that midair jump!)

1-25-10 Ms. Walter's 5th grade class playing a cowboy riding a horse (look at that midair jump!)

Ms. Williams’ 5th grade class was next. All the 5th grade teachers have “W” last names! There are a lot of very expressive students in this class. They were assigned the story, “The Lion and the Mouse.” The students worked well together and created a story chorus. It needs some work but I will see them again on Wednesday.

1-25-10 Ms. Williams' 5th graders role play a boy stealing an apple from a neighbor's tree

1-25-10 Ms. Williams' 5th graders role play a boy stealing an apple from a neighbor's tree

On my lunch break, I caught a candid of one of the 5th grade teachers, Ms. Walker. The faculty and staff showed their Saints spirit by sporting black and gold. The Saints won their playoff game last night against Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings so Saints fever runs high in the city! It is the first time the Saints will play in the Super Bowl.

1-25-10 5th grade teacher, Ms. Walker, has Saints spirit! Who Dat!

1-25-10 5th grade teacher, Ms. Walker, has Saints spirit! Who Dat!

After lunch, I had my only lower elementary group of the day. I visited Ms. Mauer’s 1st grade class. I told the story of Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach and then moved into creative movement with scarves. They danced to world music, exploring rhythms from Africa and South America. It was fun and very colorful!

1-25-10 Ms. Mauer's 1st graders dance with scarves to world music

1-25-10 Ms. Mauer's 1st graders dance with scarves to world music

One of the students in the class had a fleur de lis shaved into his hair. His parents must truly be Saints fans!

1-25-10 A true Saints fan with a fleur de lis carved into his hair!

1-25-10 A true Saints fan with a fleur de lis carved into his hair!

Next, I moved on to Ms. Creecy 4th grade class. They had a ball doing the story theater exercises. The class is large so excitement was high. I had to settle them down a few times. We ran out of time and were unable to create a story chorus but we will do that next time I see them on Wednesday.

1-25-10 4th graders in Ms. Creecy's class become a woman walking her dog in Central Park

1-25-10 4th graders in Ms. Creecy's class become a woman walking her dog in Central Park

My last class of the day was Ms. Landry’s 4th grade class. The students remembered me from previous years and were so excited to see me. They were so well-behaved and I really enjoyed working with them. They really loved the story theater exercises. They were assinged “The Little Red Hen” and did a phenomenal job crreating their story chorus with a rap to a beat. It was so catchy, I found myself singing it all day! And I loved the way the students in the chorus really cooperated, communicated and collaborated. Those were the 3 “Cs” of story theater I taught them. What a great day!

1-25-10 Ms. Landry's 4th graders are mechanics fixing their cars

1-25-10 Ms. Landry's 4th graders are mechanics fixing their cars

I ended my day with a photo op. New Orleans Saints Quarterback, Drew Brees, “stopped by” so I had to get a picture with him… Super Bowl bound, baby! :)

1-25-10 Dianne poses with New Orleans Saints Super Bowl quarterback, Drew Brees

1-25-10 Dianne poses with New Orleans Saints Super Bowl quarterback, Drew Brees

I look forward to tomorrow at Strehle!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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School Visit: Quitman Upper Elementary – Wednesday, January 20, 2010

by dlcasas on January 21, 2010

1-20-10 A teacher works with students to depict a Mardi Gras scene with masked revelers

1-20-10 A teacher works with students to depict a Mardi Gras scene with masked revelers

Friends:

Today, I visited Quitman Upper Elementary. It was such a fun day! I did three Story Fest story theater workshops and a professional development workshop for the teachers at the end of the day.

1-20-10 4th & 5th grade portraying a mechanic fixing his car

1-20-10 4th & 5th grade portraying a mechanic fixing his car

My first and second assemblies consisted of 4th and 5th graders. I spoke to them about my method of story theater and explained that we would be doing role playing exercises to warm up. They did such an incredible job with their individual, partner and group exercises.

1-20-10 Monkeys climb a tree while hungry lions wait at the bottom

1-20-10 Monkeys climb a tree while hungry lions wait at the bottom

When I asked the students questions about what they learned from the Story Fest activity, a 4th grade girl named Jaden, responded, “You are never too old or too young to use your imagination.” I couldn’t have said it better myself, Jaden!

1-20-10 4th & 5th grade students portraying a king on a Mardi Gras float with parade revelers

1-20-10 4th & 5th grade students portraying a king on a Mardi Gras float with parade revelers

With the third grade, I performed Madame Poulet and Monsieur Roach in an assembly program. It was one of the most lively, interactive performances I have ever had of this story. When the roaches danced, the students not only sang, but added additional beats, creating an awesome hip hop rhythm for the story. It was incredible!

1-20-10 Dianne sneaks up on an unsuspecting teacher during Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach

1-20-10 Dianne sneaks up on an unsuspecting teacher during Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach

After the story, I moved the 3rd grade group out to the gym floor and performed story theater exercises with them. It was well received. They had a blast!

1-20-10 A 3rd grade teacher works with a student portraying a mechanic fixing his car

1-20-10 A 3rd grade teacher works with a student portraying a mechanic fixing his car

My day ended with a professional development workshop with the teachers. Though most of them had seen Story Fest in action with their students, I gave them different roles to act out.

1-20-10 Chefs chopping at the counter

Then they rehearsed and performed a story theater piece: “The City Mouse and the Country Mouse. It was so cute and full of animated storytellers, a rhythmic chorus, scarves, and rhythm instruments.

1-20-10 Teachers perform story theater - The City Mouse and the Country Mouse

1-20-10 Teachers perform story theater - The City Mouse and the Country Mouse

Quitman Upper Elementary loves integrating the arts. Just look at this gorgeous mural in the front office!

1-20-10 Quitman Upper Elementary front office mural - Wow!

1-20-10 Quitman Upper Elementary front office mural - Wow!

I really enjoyed visiting the school. They had wonderful teachers, students and staff. Thank you to Tara Tucker, Amy Johnson, and Mr. Kelly for making my day superb! I loved my Mississippi school visits!

1-20-10 A MAC art project - The Mississippi State Seal made with natural materials

1-20-10 A MAC art project - The Mississippi State Seal made with natural materials

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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School Visit: Quitman Lower Elementary – Tuesday, January 19, 2010

by dlcasas on January 19, 2010

1-19-10 Performing for Quitman Lower Elementary 1st & 2nd grades

1-19-10 Performing for Quitman Lower Elementary 1st & 2nd grades

Friends:

Today I had the privilege of doing a school visit and a professional development workshop for Quitman Lower Elementary in Quitman, MS.

1-19-10 A teacher plays a lion in "Anansi Shares Wisdom w the World"

Angie Ledbetter, the Assistant Principal, was my contact person. My GPS misguided me to the wrong side of town and I called Angie on her cell phone in a panic. She was sweet and guided me in and greeted me upon my arrival. She told me that Carol Satterfield, a teacher and big “Fan of Dianne,” drove all the way from North Mississippi to see me and was spending the day at the school. How cool is that?!

Right before my first show, the Principal, Mr. Bounds, greeted me, welcomed me to the school, and introduced me to the students. I performed 2 shows. The first show was for pre-K and K. The second was for 1st and 2nd grades. It was so much fun and the students had a blast!

1-19-10 Students on stage playing roaches in "Madame Poulet & Monsieur Roach"

After my second show, Angie and another teacher, Tootsie, took me to lunch. We ate at a local restaurant, Skidmore’s Old Tyme Butcher Shop and Grill. They served delicious hot plates. I had fried chicken, cornbread, mac and cheese, green beans and peach cobbler. Talk about a Southern cooked meal!

1-19-10 Skidmore's Ole Tyme Butcher Shop and Grill in Quitman, MS

1-19-10 Skidmore's Ole Tyme Butcher Shop and Grill in Quitman, MS

Lunch was so much fun. We laughed and laughed. Everyone that walked in the door could have been a book character! When we were finished eating, Tootsie said, “Now we have to clean our table and scrape off our plates.” It was like a flashback to junior high. So I took my dishes to the slop bucket and scraped off my plate. There was a big sign above the table where the bin for the dirty dishes was. It said, “Please do not throw your metal forks into the trash.”

Then Tootsie told me to read the fine print. Underneath that it said, “Throw away your spit cup please.” I’m not making this up! Better be careful… The white styrofoam cup you think is your drink might actually be someone’s spit cup! Eeeew. Of course, I HAD to take a picture!

1-19-10 Throw away your spit cup sign in Ole Tyme Butcher Shop restaurant in Quitman, MS

1-19-10 Throw away your spit cup sign in Ole Tyme Butcher Shop restaurant in Quitman, MS

After lunch, we went back to school and I took a tour down the halls. The schools is one that really works to integrate the arts and the walls show it! There was art everywhere!

1-19-10 Students study Pointillism at Quitman Lower Elementary

1-19-10 Students study Pointillism at Quitman Lower Elementary

A “Learning is Fun” attitude permeates the school’s atmosphere, from the administration to the staff to students. Quitman Lower Elementary’s teachers are enthusiastic and committed to their classrooms.

1-19-10 Learning is Fun mural in Quitman Lower Elementary

1-19-10 Learning is Fun mural in Quitman Lower Elementary

In the afternoon, the teachers came into the multipurpose room for my Story Fest workshop. It was so much fun sharing my signature story theater techniques with them. They were such great participants!

1-19-10 Teachers in Story Fest Workshop portraying a monkey swinging in the trees

1-19-10 Teachers in Story Fest Workshop portraying a monkey swinging in the trees

They really embraced the story theater warm-up exercises, including Mr. Bounds, the school’s principal!

1-19-10 Mr. Bounds, Quitman Lower Elementary Principal, plays an old woman

1-19-10 Mr. Bounds, Quitman Lower Elementary Principal, plays an old woman

I enjoyed their energy and willingness to step out of their comfort zones.

1-19-10 A lion and lioness coming out of a cave

1-19-10 A lion and lioness coming out of a cave

When we were finished with the warm-up exercises, I divided the group in half and they created their own story theater. One group performed “The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking.”

1-19-10 Teachers performing "The Turtle Who Could Not Stop Talking"

The other group performed my brand new story theater script, adapted from my new book, Mama’s Bayou.

1-19-10 Teachers performing Mama's Bayou Story Theater

1-19-10 Teachers performing Mama's Bayou Story Theater

Afterwards, I signed tons of books and gave all the teachers reading posters. Every student received bookmarks. I really enjoyed my day at Quitman Lower Elementary. Thank you so much, Angie Ledbetter, for inviting me to Quitman. I love you and your school!

Tomorrow, I spend the day at Quitman Upper Elementary. Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Bissonet Plaza Elementary Handmade Tales Residency Day 6 – Monday, December 14, 2009

by dlcasas on December 14, 2009

12-14-09 Dianne creates a Mardi Gras star from string

12-14-09 Dianne creates a Mardi Gras star from string

Friends:

Today was the 6th day of my Handmade Tales residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary in Metairie, Louisiana. My first visit was to Ms. Naugle’s 4th grade class. Unfortunately, Ms. Naugle had to run out for a meeting but the class and I had a great time. They created books from the story, “The King’s Advisor” then we rehearsed “Bandana Man” for their performance on Thursday.

12-14-09 Ms. Naugle's 4th graders make Bandana Man and rehearse for their performance

12-14-09 Ms. Naugle's 4th graders make Bandana Man and rehearse for their performance

My second class was Ms. Bonnano’s 1st grade class. They enjoyed the string story, “The Stubborn Turnip” and the cut and tell story of “The King’s Advisor.” They created their books, becoming authors and illustrators.

12-14-09 Ms. Bonnano's 1st graders create books and become authors and illustrators

12-14-09 Ms. Bonnano's 1st graders create books and become authors and illustrators

It was then on to Ms. Johnson’s Kindergarten class. They were awaiting my arrival with eager anticipation. I told my string story and even made a star for them. They loved it.

12-14-09 Dianne makes a star in Ms. Johnson's Kindergarten class

12-14-09 Dianne makes a star in Ms. Johnson's Kindergarten class

After, I shared “The King’s Advisor” and we created the books from the story. They were so enthusiastic about creating their books, drawing winter and holiday illustrations such as snowmen.

12-14-09 Ms. Johnson's kindergarteners create books

12-14-09 Ms. Johnson's kindergarteners create books

Ms. Leblanc’s 2nd grade class enjoyed the string story too. They created their books and had a blast, becoming authors and illustrators in their little 6 page books made from a single sheet of paper without cutting the paper apart.

12-14-09 A student in Ms. Leblanc's 2nd grade class works on writing her book

12-14-09 A student in Ms. Leblanc's 2nd grade class works on writing her book

Ms. Fury’s 3rd grade class was next. After doing “The King’s Advisor,” we rehearsed their story, “The Girl Who Used her Wits,” for their performance on Thursday. They did a great job.

12-14-09 Students in Ms. Fury's 3rd grade rehearse The Girl Who Used Her Wits

12-14-09 Students in Ms. Fury's 3rd grade rehearse The Girl Who Used Her Wits

Ms. Brumfield’s class was my last class of the day. I told the string story, “The Stubborn Turnip,” since they were working with string. 16 students mastered the mosquito string figure for the story, “The Pesky Skeeter,” so I rewarded them by letting them keep their strings.

12-14-09 Ms. Brumfield's 5th graders master the mosquito string figure

12-14-09 Ms. Brumfield's 5th graders master the mosquito string figure

Afterward, I also taught them a new string figure, the double star. They were so excited!

12-14-09 Students in Ms. Brumfield's 5th grade class create the star string figure

12-14-09 Students in Ms. Brumfield's 5th grade class create the star string figure

Another great day at a great school! Thank you Bissonet teachers and students!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Bissonet Plaza Elementary Handmade Tales Residency Day 5 – Friday, December 11, 2009

by dlcasas on December 13, 2009

12-11-09 Ms. Morrison's 4th grade class creates a 6 page book out of a single sheet of paper from the story, "The King's Advisor" in Handmade Tales

Friends:

Friday was Day 5 of my Handmade Tales residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary in Metairie, Louisiana. My first class was Ms. Morrison’s 4th grade class. I told the string story, “The Stubborn Turnip” and “The King’s Advisor.” Afterward, the students created 6 page books from the story. Then we rehearsed their story, “Catching a Pest,” a draw and tell story that two of the students will be performing during the gradewide Handmade Tales Story Fest next week.

12-11-09 A student in Ms. Morrison's 4th grade class performs Catching a Pest

12-11-09 A student in Ms. Morrison's 4th grade class performs Catching a Pest

Next, I went to Ms. Arnett’s 3rd grade class. I told “The Emperor’s Dragon,” “The Stubborn Turnip,” and “The King’s Advisor.” Then they made their books. They had a great time and loved the draw and tell story.

12-10-09 The Emperor's Dragon, drawn by a student in Ms. Arnett's 3rd grade class

12-10-09 The Emperor's Dragon, drawn by a student in Ms. Arnett's 3rd grade class

I enjoyed visiting Ms. Hahn’s Kindergarten class. After telling “The Stubborn Turnip,” I told “The King’s Advisor” and we made the books from the story. Then they wrote and illustrated in their books. They were so cute!

12-10-09 Ms. Hahn's Kindergarten class creates books and become authors & illustrators

12-10-09 Ms. Hahn's Kindergarten class creates books and become authors & illustrators

Then I visited Ms. Presser’s 2nd grade class. They loved the string story. Then I shared “The King’s Advisor” and they made the books from the story.

12-10-09 Ms. Presser's 2nd graders made 6 page books out of a single sheet of paper from the story, "The King's Advisor"

After lunch, it was on to Ms. Duhe’s class. They were enthralled with my string story, “The Stubborn Turnip.” Ms. Duhe absolutely loved the story, “The King’s Advisor,” a story that emphasizes the importance of books.

12-10-09 Ms. Duhe's 1st grade class creates books and become authors & illustrators

12-10-09 Ms. Duhe's 1st grade class creates books and become authors & illustrators

My last class was Ms. McLeod’s 5th grade class. On my way to class, some 5th graders from Ms. Brumfield’s class stopped me to show me that they had mastered their mosquito string story. A student, John, made strings from yarn and passed them out to his classmates and tutored them on how to make the string figure. I told the class that if at least ten students master the string story, they could keep the strings I let them use. They already have ten students on the list! Way to go, John!!

12-10-09 5th graders tutor each other to create the mosquito string figure

12-10-09 5th graders tutor each other to create the mosquito string figure

In Ms. McLeod’s class, I taught them how to create origami jumping frogs. They loved it!!

12-10-09 Ms. McLeod's 5th graders create a jumping origami frog

12-10-09 Ms. McLeod's 5th graders create a jumping origami frog

Then Ms. McLeod had the idea to have a frog jumping contest, just like they do every year in Rayne, Louisiana! All the students had a turn and it was so much fun!

12-10-09 Ms. McLeod's 5th graders have a frog jumping contest

12-10-09 Ms. McLeod's 5th graders have a frog jumping contest

Ms. McLeod’s class is performing the story, “The Magic Star.” Several of them mastered the fold and cut star and showed me their skills. 5th grade has been such a pleasure to teach this year!

12-10-09 Peace, love & happiness from 5th grade!

12-10-09 Peace, love & happiness from 5th grade!

Thanks for a great day, Bissonet! See you on Monday!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Bissonet Plaza Elementary Handmade Tales Residency Day 4 – Thursday, December 10, 2009

by dlcasas on December 10, 2009

12-10-09 Dianne de Las Casas and Santa Claus

12-10-09 Dianne de Las Casas and Santa Claus

Friends:

Today was my fourth day at Bissonet Plaza Elementary in Metairie, Louisiana. I am in the midst of an arts-in-education residency, teaching grades K-5 handmade tales from my book, Handmade Tales.

When I first arrived at school, I came in through the back door of the library. Every day, I put my lunch in the library refrigerator located in a small room at the back of the library. The room has curtains for “doors.” When I parted the curtain to enter the room, was I surprised! I caught Santa getting dressed! Was I embarrassed! He was getting dressed for Santa pictures. Jolly Old St. Nick had a sense of humor and was kind enough to let me take a picture of him. :)

12-10-09 My accidental meeting with Santa

12-10-09 My accidental meeting with Santa

My first class was Ms. Morales’ cool 4th grade class. They cheered when I walked through the door. I taught them “Catching a Pest” and then we did the story, “April Showers.”

12-10-09 A talented student creates a flower in Ms. Morales' 4th grade class

12-10-09 A talented student creates a flower in Ms. Morales' 4th grade class

The story turns a sheet of paper into a curtained window, a raindrop, a flower, and finally, a ladybug. It was so cool seeing the students transform their sheets of construction paper. Thanks for a great time, Ms. Morales’ class!

12-10-09 A student from Ms. Morales' 4th grade class makes a ladybug from the story, April Showers

12-10-09 A student from Ms. Morales' 4th grade class makes a ladybug from the story, April Showers

Next, I traipsed over to Mr. Boone’s 3rd grade class. Mr. Boone is such a fun teacher and his students were ready for my visit. After the draw and tell tale, I taught the class the story, “Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle,” a story that uses only the hands. It’s such a cute tale. They loved the story and enjoyed telling it together.

12-10-09 Students from Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class learning Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle

12-10-09 Students from Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class learning Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle

After Mr. Boone’s class, it was on to Ms. Johnson’s kindergarten class. I told “Catching a Pest” and “Papa’s Teepee,” a cut and tell that turns a coffee filter into a teepee and then into a snowflake. They loved creating their fabulous snowflakes!

12-10-09 Ms. Johnson's Kindergarten class creates snowflakes

12-10-09 Ms. Johnson's Kindergarten class creates snowflakes

Ms. Vizzini’s 2nd grade class was next. I taught them how to draw a mouse using the numbers 1 through 7 in the story, “Catching a Pest.” They were awed at how the numbers formed a picture.

12-10-09 Drawing Catching a Pest in Ms. Vizzini's 2nd grade class

12-10-09 Drawing Catching a Pest in Ms. Vizzini's 2nd grade class

Then they cut their snowflakes and had a ton of fun making a snow blizzard!

12-10-09 Snowflakes float in Ms. Vizzini's 2nd grade class

12-10-09 Snowflakes float in Ms. Vizzini's 2nd grade class

After lunch, I visited Ms. Lemoine’s 1st grade class. It was fun working with her group and they adored the snowflake activity! I got lots of hugs from Ms. Lemoine’s 1st graders. So cute!

12-10-09 Snowflakes float in Ms. Vizzini's 2nd grade class

12-10-09 Snowflakes float in Ms. Vizzini's 2nd grade class

My last class was two combined Pre-K classes. I told “Bandana Man,” and “The Pesky Skeeter” and “The Stubborn Turnip” with string. They had a ball!

12-10-09 Dianne uses a bandana to portray an old woman in Bandana Man for Pre-K

12-10-09 Dianne uses a bandana to portray an old woman in Bandana Man for Pre-K

The Pre-K class practically mobbed me with hugs when I was finished. They are a loving bunch.

12-10-09 Dianne (way in the back) with the Pre-K classes

12-10-09 Dianne (way in the back) with the Pre-K classes

It was a great day and I look forward to Friday! After school, I have to head to Baton Rouge for a book signing at Barnes & Noble Citiplace at 7:00pm. It should be fun!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

Note: The students’ faces are obscured to protect their identities.

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