Teaching Artist

Bissonet Plaza Elementary Handmade Tales Residency Day 7 – Tuesday, December 15, 2009

by Dianne on December 16, 2009

12-15-09 Ms. Morrow's 4th grade class rehearses their story, The Frog and the Ox

12-15-09 Ms. Morrow's 4th grade class rehearses their story, The Frog and the Ox

Friends:

Today was Day 7 of my Handmade Tales residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary in Metairie, LA. My day began in 4th grade, in Ms. Morrow’s class. They had a surprise for me. They are performing the handmade tale, “The Frog and the Ox.” They created a jazzed up rap and dance for the chorus. They were gettin’ down! Word! It was so awesome!

12-15-09 Ms. Morrow's 4th grade class chorus gets down!

12-15-09 Ms. Morrow's 4th grade class chorus gets down!

They created books from my story, “The King’s Advisor.” Some of the student got very creative. I love this book… inspired by the book, Fantastic Mr. Fox, by Roald Dahl. Thank you!

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Morrow's 4th grade class writes a book in my honor!

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Morrow's 4th grade class writes a book in my honor!

Then I headed to Ms. Tonguis’ 1st grade class. We had so much fun with my string story, “The Stubborn Turnip.” They also loved the draw and tell story, “The Emperor’s Dragon.”

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Tonguis' 1st grade class draws a dragon

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Tonguis' 1st grade class draws a dragon

After first grade, I hopped over to Ms. Anchissi’s Kindergarten class. They enjoyed the story of “The Stubborn Turnip.”

12-15-09 Telling The Stubborn Turnip string story in Ms. Anchissi's Kindergarten class

12-15-09 Telling The Stubborn Turnip string story in Ms. Anchissi's Kindergarten class

After, we did “The King’s Advisor” and made the 6 page book from the story. Then, they became authors and illustrators.

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Anchissi's Kindergarten class creates a Christmas book

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Anchissi's Kindergarten class creates a Christmas book

Ms. Chieffo’s 2nd grade class was next. They were excited to see me. I told them the story of “The Stubborn Turnip” and they were very participatory. Then we made 6 page books out of a single sheet of paper from my story, “The King’s Advisor.”

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Chieffo's 2nd grade class creates a book about outer space

12-15-09 A Student in Ms. Chieffo's 2nd grade class creates a book about outer space

Ms. Frechette’s 3rd grade class was next. After creating the book out of a single sheet of paper, they rehearsed their story for the Handmade Tales gradewide performances on Thursday. Their story is “The Ugly Duckling.” The main cast did a great job telling and demonstrating the story. The chorus was also fun to watch as they rapped and danced their parts. Way to go, Ms. Frechette’s 3rd graders. You totally rocked today!

12-15-09 Students in Ms. Frechette's 3rd grade class rehearse their story, The Ugly Duckling

12-15-09 Students in Ms. Frechette's 3rd grade class rehearse their story, The Ugly Duckling

My last class was Mr. Joyce’s 5th grade class. They were a great group and I had fun teaching them how to make Russian nesting dolls out of paper. They created all kinds of cool characters.

12-15-09 A Student in Mr. Joyce's 5th grade class creates characters from paper nesting dolls

12-15-09 A Student in Mr. Joyce's 5th grade class creates characters from paper nesting dolls

Check out these robots!

12-15-09 A Student in Mr. Joyce's 5th grade class creates a trio of robots from paper nesting dolls

12-15-09 A Student in Mr. Joyce's 5th grade class creates a trio of robots from paper nesting dolls

Then they breezed through their rehearsal of “The Emperor’s Dragon” draw and tell story. It’s going to be so wonderful to see them perform! I just love this year’s group of 5th graders! They are so excited to learn, do and perform.

12-15-09 Students in Mr. Joyce's 5th grade class perform the story, The Emperor's Dragon

12-15-09 Students in Mr. Joyce's 5th grade class perform the story, The Emperor's Dragon

Another fun day at Bissonet!!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Dawes School Residency Day 5 (Final Day) – Friday, October 30, 2009

by Dianne on November 1, 2009

10-30-09 Sr. Puentes' Kindergarten class acts out the role of a woman walking her dog

10-30-09 Sr. Puentes' Kindergarten class acts out the role of a woman walking her dog

Friends:

My last day at Dawes was a wonderful one. I had three classes and then I was invited to attend a Halloween party by Lilly (my friend, Juliet Bond’s daughter) and her third grade teacher, Ms. Brennan. My first classroom visit was Sr. Puentes’ Kindergarten TWI (Two Way Immersion) class. They are always such a fun and cooperative group. They followed every instruction to a tee. What cuties too!

10-30-09 Sr. Puentes' Kindergarten class acts out the role of a woman walking her dog

10-30-09 Sr. Puentes' Kindergarten class acts out the role of a woman walking her dog

Plus, Sr. Puentes and his assistant are so sweet! I loved visiting this class!

Next, it was on to Ms. Sovich’s 2nd grade classroom. The kids were so excited to see me, giving me hugs and sitting on the run in anticipation of the class’ upcoming activities. I told the story of “Sody Sallyraytus,” taught them Zydeco dancing, and did some role playing drama activities with them. They were great dancers and Ms. Sovich even videotaped the students doing the two step! Too cool!

10-30-09 Ms. Sovich's 2nd grade class dances Zydeco

10-30-09 Ms. Sovich's 2nd grade class dances Zydeco

They moved quickly into doing their roles, acting out all the parts with enthusiasm, even in partnered pairs. What a great class!

10-30-09 Ms. Sovich's 2nd grade class acting out baby bear sitting on a chair

10-30-09 Ms. Sovich's 2nd grade class acting out baby bear sitting on a chair

Check out Ms. Swanson, the second grade TWI teacher. She’s a honey of a teacher!

10-30-09 First Grade Teacher Ms. Swanson is all the buzz!

10-30-09 First Grade Teacher Ms. Swanson is all the buzz!

My last class was Ms. Weatherby and Ms. Gibert’s Kindergarten class. These two teachers are so wonderful. They welcomed me into their classroom with open arms and always offered me treats! So I made up a rap for them:

Here’s a little story for you and me
About Ms. Weatherby and Ms. G
These 2 teachers are so cool
2 of the coolest in the school
Ms. Weatherby and Ms. G (uh)
Ms. Weatherby and Ms. G (uh uh!)
WORD!

10-30-09 Ms. Weatherby & Ms. Gibert's Kindergarteners dance Zydeco

10-30-09 Ms. Weatherby & Ms. Gibert's Kindergarteners dance Zydeco

These kindergarteners did such a great job with their role playing! Check this out! Soo adorable!

10-30-09 Ms. Weatherby & Ms. Gibert's Kindergarteners act out Little Red Riding Hood and her cape

10-30-09 Ms. Weatherby & Ms. Gibert's Kindergarteners act out Little Red Riding Hood and her cape

My teaching came to an end but the fun didn’t! I went to Ms. Brennan’s third grade classroom and had fun at their Halloween party!

10-30-09 Third Grade Teacher Ms. Brennan is a beautiful butterfly

10-30-09 Third Grade Teacher Ms. Brennan is a beautiful butterfly

We danced the Monster Mash, ate lots of tricky treats (there were apple strudels stuffed with worms! [gummy of course]), and had a ton of fun. Look at these marvelous monsters!

10-30-09 Dianne, Zombie Lilly & Scary Guy at Ms. Brennan's 3rd grade class Halloween party

10-30-09 Dianne, Zombie Lilly & Scary Guy at Ms. Brennan's 3rd grade class Halloween party

Before I left Dawes, I encountered this mystery rock star… Who is it?!!!

10-30-09 Who is this Guitar Hero rockin the halls of Dawes?!!

10-30-09 Who is this Guitar Hero rockin the halls of Dawes?!!

Thank you for having me at your school, Dawes! You were awesome! A special thank you to Juliet Bond (the Dawes PTA coordinator of this residency), Ms. Jicha (school librarian), Ms. Bradley (principal), Ms. Johnson (school secretary), and all the teachers and staff at Dawes who made my visit so pleasant and memorable. Also, a huge thank you to the Dawes PTA for funding my visit!! I’d love to come back! :) And thank you to all the Dawes Kindergarten, First, and Second grade students. Dawes Elementary ROCKS!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Dawes School Residency Day 4 – Thursday, October 29, 2009

by Dianne on November 1, 2009

10-29-09 Dianne de Las Casas & Sue Jicha, Dawes Librarian

10-29-09 Dianne de Las Casas & Sue Jicha, Dawes Librarian

Friends:

My day began with an assembly program for Grades 3-5. I did my spooky program, “Scared Silly,” since Halloween was just around the corner. The students loved it. My “Ghost of Mable Gable” was ever popular and the students were chanting the punch line all day long. Cool!

After my assembly, I went to Ms. Whisler’s 2nd grade TWI (Two Way Immersion) class. They listened to a story (“Sody Sallyraytus”), learned Zydeco, and did role playing exercises. Though the boys were a little reluctant, we still had fun.

10-29-09 Dancing Zydeco in Ms. Whisler's 2nd grade class

10-29-09 Dancing Zydeco in Ms. Whisler's 2nd grade class

Ms. Whisler’s class loved the role playing drama activity. They were really good at portraying the various roles I gave them.

10-29-09 Acting as tables in Ms. Whisler's 2nd grade class

10-29-09 Acting as tables in Ms. Whisler's 2nd grade class

After Ms. Whisler’s class, I saw Ms. Shleker’s second graders. They were such a kind, cooperative group that exhibited exemplary teamwork and partnering skills. I even gave them a little treat and taught them Hula!

10-29-09 Telling a story in Ms. Schleker's 2nd grade class

10-29-09 Telling a story in Ms. Schleker's 2nd grade class

Afterwards, the class treated me to a choral reading of two fun poems including “Igga Bigga,” which I love! What a fantastic class!

10-29-09 Ms. Schleker's 2nd graders are elephants

10-29-09 Ms. Schleker's 2nd graders are elephants

I met a phenomenal pumpkin carving artist, David Rotter, a Dawes parent and school helper. He brought Ms. Johnson, the super school secretary, a cool carved pumpkin! Wow!

10-29-09 David Rotter, a Dawes parent and visual artist, poses with his amazing carved pumpkin. He's a handsome fella, isn't he?! LOL

10-29-09 David Rotter, a Dawes parent and visual artist, poses with his amazing carved pumpkin. He's a handsome fella, isn't he?! LOL

My day ended with an assembly program for grades K through 2. Again, I did my “Scared Silly” show and the students loved it. They even helped me on stage a couple of times! It was a blast!

10-29-09 Dawes students help Dianne with a story, "The House that Witchy Built," an original story by Dianne

Later that night, I had a performance and book signing at the Dawes Book Fair at Barnes & Noble.

10-30-09 Barnes & Noble performance

10-30-09 Barnes & Noble performance small

The event was packed and I enjoyed myself immensely! It looked like the kids did too!

10-30-09 Madame Poulet Eats Roaches

10-30-09 Madame Poulet Eats Roaches

After my performance, I signed lots of books. Thank you Dawes School for supporting the book fair night! And thank you to Juliet Bond for providing the photos from the Barnes & Noble event in Evanston! :)

10-30-09 Signing at Barnes & Noble

10-30-09 Signing at Barnes & Noble

Until next time….

Warmly, Dianne

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Residency at Dawes School Day 1 – Monday, October 26, 2009

by Dianne on October 26, 2009

10-26-09 Welcome to Dawes

10-26-09 Welcome to Dawes

Friends:

Today was my first day at Dawes School in Evanston, Illinois, where I am the storytelling/author in residence for grades K through 2. The visit was arranged by my good friend and Dawes parent, Juliet Bond, and the Dawes Librarian, Sue Jicha. Sue was such a sweetheart, facilitating my visit and making sure everything ran smoothly. Ms. Bradley, the principal, greeted me first thing in the morning, making me feel welcome at Dawes.

10-26-09 Dianne in the Dawes Library

10-26-09 Dianne in the Dawes Library

My first class was Ms. Wilcinski’s kindergarten class. They were a sweet group of children and I had fun telling The Cajun Cornbread Boy and doing creative movement with scarves and jazz music.

10-26-09 Ms. Wilcinski's Kindergarten

10-26-09 Ms. Wilcinski's Kindergarten

Next, I went to Ms. Hamilton’s 1st grade classroom. They were sitting quietly and ready for me to start when I came in. We had a blast and the students really enjoyed the activity.

10-26-09 Ms. Hamilton's 1st grade

10-26-09 Ms. Hamilton's 1st grade

Then it was off to Ms. Shleker’s 2nd grade class. This group of energetic children were so participatory in my story and had a great time with the scarf activity. I found out that Ms. Shleker was involved in theater and she loved my jazz music. :) We had such a fun time!

10-26-09 Ms. Schleker's 2nd grade

10-26-09 Ms. Schleker's 2nd grade

After lunch, I visited Ms. Sovich’s 2nd grade class. Ms. Sovich is a singer and knew all the songs I played on the Jazz for Kids CD. I was so impressed. The students had a great time with the story as well as the music activity.

10-26-09 Ms. Sovich's 2nd grade

10-26-09 Ms. Sovich's 2nd grade

My last class was with Ms. Swanson’s 1st grade TWI (Two Way Immersion) class. the students are immersed in a Spanish language curriculum. I had the opportunity to speak some Spanish and the children were so much fun.

10-26-09 Telling a story in Ms. Swanson's TWI 1st grade

10-26-09 Telling a story in Ms. Swanson's TWI 1st grade

It was a wonderful first day. The teachers were so warm and welcoming and the students were very well-behaved and enthusiastic. I am totally looking forward to tomorrow!

10-26-09 Turtle Art at Dawes School

10-26-09 Turtle Art at Dawes School

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Resideny @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 9, Thursday, February 26, 2009

by admin on February 27, 2009

Dianne de Las Casas tell stories to the pre-K classes 2-26-09

Dianne de Las Casas tell stories to the pre-K classes 2-26-09

Friends:

Today was Day 9 of my Louisiana Story Fest residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary. My 8 year old daughter, Eliana, who is off school for the Mardi Gras break, accompanied me to the school. She was such a sweet helper, filling in for missing students during rehearsal, helping me distribute supplies, and keep me organized. She even knew the schedule!

For my last two days, I am with the P.E. department, seeing each grade level at one time. My day began with 5th grade. The classes were very disorganized with the exception of Ms. Brumfield’s storytellers. They were animated, lively, and projected their voices with vocal variety. I hope to see more of that tomorrow!

Dianne settles down the crowd 2-26-09

Dianne settles down the crowd 2-26-09

Pre-K participated in “Going on a Bear Hunt” and other participatory stories. They were fun.

Dianne tells a story to Pre-K 2-26-09

Dianne tells a story to Pre-K 2-26-09

The third graders did a nice job but it was Mr. Boone’s class that stood out. I was very impressed with Mr. Boone’s class (storytellers and chorus), who performed their entire story without scripts. They did a great job. Yay!

Third graders rehearse 2-26-09

Third graders rehearse 2-26-09

After telling stories, singing songs ad having a blast with first grade, second grade, and kindergarten, it was time to rehearse with the 4th graders.

First graders listen to a story 2-26-09

First graders listen to a story 2-26-09

The fourth grade is, right now, the most cohesive group of performers. Ms. Morrow’s story chorus, in the tale of Poucette (Tom Thumb), is the best story chorus I have seen thus far. They added complex dance moves and scarves to their equally strong vocals. Way to go, Ms. Morrow’s 4th grade story chorus (Skitter, skitter, skat…)!!

Ms. Morrow's 4th grade story chorus rocks their story! 2-26-09

Ms. Morrow's 4th grade story chorus rocks their story! 2-26-09

I look forward to seeing how tomorrow’s performances will turn out. I know I am ready! Best wishes, Bissonet Boys and Girls. Make me proud!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Residency @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 8 Friday, February 20, 2009

by admin on February 24, 2009

Telling the Gigantic Sweet Potato to Ms. Anchissi's Kindergarten Class

Telling the Gigantic Sweet Potato to Ms. Anchissi's Kindergarten Class 2-20-09

Friends:

Friday began very early in the morning. I made my appearance on Good Morning New Orleans, the early morning news program on ABC-26 WGNO (see previous blog). Then I headed to Bissonet Plaza Elementary for Day 8 of my residency. Unfortunately, I ran into some serious traffic on the bridge that caused me to be late for school (for the first time ever!).

On my way to class, I was walking in front of the school when my boot heel got caught in a crack in the sidewalk. I felt myself falling. Immediately I dropped everything in my hands. My first thought was, “I cannot fall on the concrete!” So I flung myself into the grass. I fell so hard, my face and knees hit the grass. I had the wind knocked out of me and lay on the ground dazed for a couple of minutes. When I was able to compose myself, I walked slowly into school and to the library. The librarian, Ellen Miller, sent me to the office for some ice. My right eye turned red and the right side of my face began to welt. I felt bruises on my knees. The principal and the office staff were so kind to me, nursing me and asking if I needed to go to the doctor. After sitting for half an hour, I felt okay and really wanted to go to class. I missed my first class with Ms. Chieffo’s second graders.

I headed into kindergarten to tell “The Gigantic Sweet Potato” to Ms. Anchissi’s class. They enjoyed the story and we danced with scarves to Mardi Gras jazz music.

Then I headed to Mr. Boone’s third grade class. They were ready for me! There were cheers and hugs as soon as I entered the room.

Ms. Dianne & Mr. Boone, 3rd grade teacher 2-20-09

Ms. Dianne & Mr. Boone, 3rd grade teacher 2-20-09

I love Mr. Boone and his class. This class had already rehearsed and they were ready to show me that they knew their parts without their scripts! It was amazing!

Mr. Boone's 3rd grade storytellers rehearse Jackie Rabbit without their script! 2-20-09

Mr. Boone's 3rd grade storytellers rehearse Jackie Rabbit without their script! 2-20-09

Mr. Boone’s third grade story chorus was equally fantastic. They did a phenomenal job with their part, really spicing up the story.

Mr. Boone's 3rd grade story chorus gets down 2-20-09

Mr. Boone's 3rd grade story chorus gets down 2-20-09

Afterward, we had some time to have a little fun. They listened to some of my songs and stories on my website. They really loved “Peanut Butter and Jelly Jam!” Thank you, Mr. Boone’s class. You rock!

After lunch, it was on to pre-k. Since I missed the second graders earlier in the day, we readjusted the schedule and combined my last two classes, which were pre-k, into one class, leaving last period open for my second grade class. I went into Ms. Muller’s room and Ms. Leboutillier’s class joined us. It was a lot of fun having such energetic students all in one space. We had fun singing and learning some of my “Settle Downs.”

Ms. Dianne does a "Settle Down" with 2 preschool classes 2-20-09

Ms. Dianne does a "Settle Down" with 2 preschool classes 2-20-09

We ended a little early so that we could all see the third grade Mardi Gras parade of shoe box floats. The third grade shoe box floats each represented a U.S. state. It was a great parade!

The third graders have a Mardi Gras shoe box float parade 2-20-09

The third graders have a Mardi Gras shoe box float parade 2-20-09

My last class was Ms. Chieffo’s second grade class. I told “The Gigantic Sweet Potato” and then did my “Pile It on the Pie a Mile High” song game. We had a blast. Afterward, we had time for a Q&A and they wanted to know so much about my travels and writing books. Everyone was in the Mardi Gras spirit, including these second graders! Too cute!

Ms. Chieffo's 2nd graders pose with their handmade Mardi Gras masks 2-20-09

Ms. Chieffo's 2nd graders pose with their handmade Mardi Gras masks 2-20-09

Happy Mardi Gras, Bissonet Plaza Elementary! Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Residency @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 7 Thursday, February 19, 2009

by admin on February 19, 2009

Ms. Lemoine's first graders listen intently to The Gigantic Sweet Potato 2-19-09

Ms. Lemoine's first graders listen intently to The Gigantic Sweet Potato 2-19-09

Friends:

Today was Day 7 of my Louisiana Story Fest residency at Bissonet Plaza Elementary. My first stop was Ms. Lemoine’s first grade class. They were excited to see me. They had a great time participating in my story, “The Gigantic Sweet Potato.” Afterward, we explored Louisiana’s jazz music, dancing to the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Marcia Ball.

Ms. Lemoine's first graders shake their scarves to brass band jazz 2-19-09

Ms. Lemoine's first graders shake their scarves to brass band jazz 2-19-09

We even second-lined around the room. After all, it is carnival season! Thank you, Ms. Lemoine for taking such fabulous pictures. I love Ms. Lemoine. She is lots of fun and always so stylish!

Ms. Dianne leads Ms. Lemoine's first graders in a second line

Ms. Dianne leads Ms. Lemoine's first graders in a second line

Then it was on to Ms. Vizzini’s second grade class. They are well-mannered and sweet children. After listening to “The Gigantic Sweet Potato,” we danced to jazz music, playing the horns and piano.

Ms. Vizzini's second graders are a rainbow of jazzy colors!

Ms. Vizzini's second graders are a rainbow of jazzy colors!

Next, it was time for Ms. Bonnano’s kindergarten class. When I walked into the room, they received me like a rock star! The children rushed and tackled me with hugs. It’s nice to be loved so much but I certainly didn’t want anyone getting hurt. The children were so excited about my visit that it took a little while to settle them down but once they quieted down, they were a perfect story audience. Dancing to jazz music excited them again and we had fun getting down!

Ms. Bonnano's dance to jazz music 2-19-09

Ms. Bonnano's dance to jazz music 2-19-09

After kindergarten, it was upstairs to Ms. Massa’s third grade class. Again, the students were so excited to see me. We rehearsed their story, “Petite Pouce.” The story chorus did a phenomenal job putting their part together with rhythm, movement, and scarves.

Ms. Massa's 3rd grade story chorus performs 2-19-09

Ms. Massa's 3rd grade story chorus performs 2-19-09

The storytellers also did a nice job and we rehearsed the entire story so quickly that we had extra time before lunch to have a Q&A session. Students always have such interesting questions – they wanted to know how I “became famous” and what places I have visited.

Ms. Massa's third grade storytellers prepare 2-19-09

Ms. Massa's third grade storytellers prepare 2-19-09

After lunch, I was in Ms. Naugle’s fourth grade class. What a pleasant surprise to enter the class and find out that they had already done a run-through of the script. The story chorus didn’t need much coaching on the rhythm part of their song. We added a lot of spice to the story (“The Cajun Cornbread Boy”) by having the chorus chime in during different times throughout the story. It’s going to be so cool to see them perform.

Ms. Naugles fourth grade story chorus sings The Cajun Cornbread Boy

Ms. Naugles fourth grade story chorus sings The Cajun Cornbread Boy

The storytellers worked very well with the story chorus. Ms. Naugle’s class is accustomed to performances so I know they are going to shine on show day! (Ms. Naugle, your class did a terrific job while you were out. I can’t wait for you to see what they baked!)

Ms. Naugles fourth graders rehearse 2-19-09

Ms. Naugles fourth graders rehearse 2-19-09

My last class of the day was Ms. Brumfield’s 5th grade class. They were wonderfully quiet and ready when I arrived in class. Fifth graders are naturally reticent when put on the spot, especially when it comes to performing in front of their peers. This group was no exception. My story chorus was, at first, rather reluctant but I was finally able to pull out some wonderful creativity. Their parts came out fantastic!

Ms. Brumfield's 5th grade story chorus raps 2-19-09

Ms. Brumfield's 5th grade story chorus raps 2-19-09

The storytellers, on the other hand, were ready and willing participants. They were expressive and dramatic, which added so much character to their story (“Elephant and Snake”). They projected their voices and added vocal variety to their parts. I was so impressed. They are, frankly, some of the best storytellers I have seen. This was quite a turn-around from last week! I love seeing children fulfill their incredible potential! I look forward to seeing this group perform their story. It’s going to be fantastic.

Ms. Brumfield's fifth grade storytellers rehearse The Elephant and the Snake 2-19-09

Ms. Brumfield's fifth grade storytellers rehearse The Elephant and the Snake 2-19-09

It was another wonderful day at school. I love just days like these, when you see students being all they can be. Yay! I wonder what tomorrow will bring?

I have to get to bed earlier tonight. In the morning, I will be a guest on the news showGood Morning New Orleans at 6:15 a.m. on WGNO ABC-26. I am looking forward to it!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 6 Wednesday, February 18, 2009

by admin on February 18, 2009

Ms. Duhe's first graders are a musical rainbow 2-19-09

Ms. Duhe's first graders are a musical rainbow 2-19-09

Friends:

Today was such a wonderful day at school. It started out in Ms. Duhe’s first grade class. The students enjoyed the story of “The Gigantic Sweet Potato” and my song game “Pile it on the Pie.” Afterwards, we danced with scarves to the jazzy sounds of The Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Marcia Ball.

Ms. Duhe's first graders play the horns in a jazz band 2-18-09

Ms. Duhe's first graders play the horns in a jazz band 2-18-09

After first grade, I traveled upstairs to see Ms. Leblanc’s second graders. They are such a wonderful, polite class. After telling “The Gigantic Sweet Potato” and playing my song game, we explored Louisiana’s jazz music.

Ms. Leblanc's second graders get into the jazz spirit 2-18-09

Ms. Leblanc's second graders get into the jazz spirit 2-18-09

My third class was Ms. Hahn’s kindergarten. Ms. Hahn was not there but the children were well-managed by the student teacher, Ms. Kelly. They loved the story – even the ESL children participated in the chorus.

Ms. Hahna's Kindergarteners listen to the Gigantic Sweet Potato 2-18-09

Ms. Hahna's Kindergarteners listen to the Gigantic Sweet Potato 2-18-09

Then we got up and danced to jazz music.

Kindergartenersplay the horns 2-18-09

Kindergartenersplay the horns 2-18-09

After hugs from my kindergarteners at the end, it was time to move upstairs to Ms. Arnett’s third grade. At first, the class had a difficult time focusing. When negative energy was removed from the room, it seemed as though a magical transformation had taken place. The students worked together to create a wonderful story chorus full of rhythm and fun moves. They were so cute!

Ms. Arnett's third grade story chorus rehearses 2-18-09

Ms. Arnett's third grade story chorus rehearses 2-18-09

The third grade storytellers performed their pieces beautifully.

Ms. Arnett's third grade storytellers rehearse Take Care of My Cabbage 2-18-09

Ms. Arnett's third grade storytellers rehearse Take Care of My Cabbage 2-18-09

After lunch, it was time for Ms. Morrow’s fourth grade class. They had a surprise for me when I came to the room! Their story is “Poucette – Tom Thumb.” Several of the students created little Poucette’s on their fingers and one of the students had a sweet message on her hand.

Ms. Morrow's 4th graders are Ms. Dianne's groupies! LOL 2-18-09

Ms. Morrow's 4th graders are Ms. Dianne's groupies! LOL 2-18-09

I love Ms. Morrow’s class. They are always so cooperative and creative. They worked together almost effortlessly to create one of the best story choruses I have seen since I’ve been teaching this! Not only did they create a cool rap for their chorus, they also integrated intricate AND energetic dance moves punctuated with the colorful scarves. They were awesome!

Ms. Morrow's fourth grade story chorus in motion! 2-18-09

Ms. Morrow's fourth grade story chorus in motion! 2-18-09

The storytellers did an equally nice job, projecting their voices and add movement to their roles. Several of the storytellers even worked without their scripts. It was so wonderful to see the story of “Poucette – Tom Thumb,” a Louisiana folktale, come together like this.

Ms. Morrow's fourth grade storytellers rehearse Poucette - Tom Thumb 2-18-09

Ms. Morrow's fourth grade storytellers rehearse Poucette - Tom Thumb 2-18-09

Ms. Morrow and her students thanked me for coming to their class. My visit to their class was definitely a highlight for me.

It was on to Ms. McLeod’s 5th grade class. After some prodding, the students worked together to create a fun rap out of the story chorus. They are performing my story, “The Gigantic Sweet Potato,” and they did a terrific job. I love the story chorus, which is rapped and full of movement.

Ms. McLeod's 5th grade story chorus raps 2-18-09

Ms. McLeod's 5th grade story chorus raps 2-18-09

The storytellers worked quickly and did a great job. Although it was a short class period, we were able to rehearse the entire story.

Ms. McLeod's 5th grade storytellers rehearse The Gigantic Sweet Potato 2-18-09

Ms. McLeod's 5th grade storytellers rehearse The Gigantic Sweet Potato 2-18-09

I couldn’t have asked for a better day! All my classes earned an A+! Thank you so much, Bissonet students. I hope to see more of the same tomorrow!

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Residency @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 5 Tuesday, February 17, 2009

by admin on February 18, 2009

Ms. Dianne tells The Gigantic Sweet Potato to Ms. Ragusa's first grade class 2-17-09

Ms. Dianne tells The Gigantic Sweet Potato to Ms. Ragusa's first grade class 2-17-09

Friends:

After a four day weekend, today was my fifth day at Bissonet Plaza Elementary doing my Louisiana Story Fest residency. My day began in Ms. Ragusa’s first grade class where I told a new story, The Gigantic Sweet Potato. Then we explored Louisiana’s jazz and brass band music with scarves, movement and dancing. The class was enthusiastic and we had so much fun.

I then went to Ms. Presser’s second grade class. I always love visiting this class because they are so well-behaved, inquisitive, and are genuinely interested in learning. After telling my story, I was even able to share a little social studies lesson with the students. Afterwards, we danced to jazz music with our scarves. Those students can really get down!

Ms. Presser's second graders dance to jazz music 2-17-09

Ms. Presser's second graders dance to jazz music 2-17-09

Then it was on to Ms. Johnson’s kindergarten class. We had fun with The Gigantic Sweet Potato, Pile it on the Pie (a cumulative chant with Louisiana foods), and a frog subtraction handplay. We then danced to the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Marcia Ball.

Ms. Johnson's kindergarteners play with scarves to jazz music 2-17-09

Ms. Johnson's kindergarteners play with scarves to jazz music 2-17-09

After kindergarten, it was back upstairs to Ms. Frechette’s third grade class. Ms. Frechette was out and the class was a little unsettled. It took a while to get them to where they needed to be to rehearse. But when they did, it was wonderful.

Ms. Frechette's 3rd grade storytellers rehearse their Brer Rabbit story 2-17-09

Ms. Frechette's 3rd grade storytellers rehearse their Brer Rabbit story 2-17-09

They are performing “Brer Rabbit and the Tar Baby” and the story is going to be fabulous! I can’t wait to see it come together for performance day next week.

Ms. Frechette's 3rd grade chorus rehearses 2-17-09

Ms. Frechette's 3rd grade chorus rehearses 2-17-09

After lunch, I went to Ms. Morales’ fourth grade class. Were they excited to see me! The class worked quickly and nearly effortlessly creating their chorus parts for their story, Jean Sotte – Foolish John. It was amazing. They were so good – in fact, they rocked!

Ms. Morales' 4th grade chorus rehearses 2-17-09

Ms. Morales' 4th grade chorus rehearses 2-17-09

The 4th grade storytellers did an equally astounding job. They went through their parts quickly and worked well with the chorus. I think they are going to turn out an amazing performance.

Ms. Morales' 4th grade storytellers 2-17-09

Ms. Morales' 4th grade storytellers 2-17-09

After 4th grade, it was on to Mr. Joyce’s fifth grade class. While the class, as a whole, did a much better job than my last visit, they were still so disjointed and chatty. There are several class clowns and students who are attention-seekers. This disrupts the flow of the lesson and causes constant interruption and counseling. Once I was able to get the chorus to focus and commit to their part, they settled down a bit.

Mr. Joyce's 5th grade chorus rehearses La Petite Fourmi 2-17-09

Mr. Joyce's 5th grade chorus rehearses La Petite Fourmi 2-17-09

Once the storytellers began their parts, things started to flow a little better. The storytellers were more focused than the chorus and really tried to execute their roles, working on properly pronouncing the French words in the story.

Mr. Joyce's 5th grade storytellers rehearse La Petite Fourmi 2-17-09

Mr. Joyce's 5th grade storytellers rehearse La Petite Fourmi 2-17-09

It will be interesting to see how this group of 5th graders performs their story next week in dress rehearsal and during the actual performance. I look forward to seeing tomorrow’s classes.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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Louisiana Story Fest Residency @ Bissonet Plaza Elementary – Day 4 Thursday, February 12, 2009

by admin on February 16, 2009

Ms. Chieffo's 2nd graders dance Zydeco 2-12-09

Ms. Chieffo's 2nd graders dance Zydeco 2-12-09

Friends:

I had such a good time on Day 4 of my Story Fest residency. It was a late day, with my first class starting at 9:40 am so I took advantage of the extra time and worked out for an hour at home. I came to school refreshed and ready to go! My first class was Ms. Chieffo’s 2nd grade class. They were perfect little angels – so incredibly well-behaved. They listened intently to the tale of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and followed instructions when it came time to explore Louisiana’s Cajun and Zydeco music through scarves, movement, and dance.

2nd graders play the washboard 2-12-09

2nd graders play the washboard 2-12-09

After 2nd grade, I went downstairs to meet Ms. Bonnano’s kindergarten class. They were an enthusiastic, curious group of students who really enjoyed my activities. I told them the story of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and they loved it.

Ms. Dianne shows Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners The Cajun Cornbread Boy book 2-12-09

Ms. Dianne shows Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners The Cajun Cornbread Boy book 2-12-09

Ms. Bonnano (my first time meeting her) was so sweet and accommodating. Here they are dancing and passing a good time!

Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners dance Zydeco

Ms. Bonnano's Kindergarteners dance Zydeco 2-12-09

Then it was on to Mr. Boone’s 3rd grade class. I love Mr. Boone. He is a great teacher who knows how to balance fun and discipline. I arrived a tad early so I helped Mr. Boone finish up his lesson on ABC order. It was fun to “team teach” with Mr. Boone! Afterwards, we transitioned into my activities.

Ms. Dianne walks a "dog" in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

Ms. Dianne walks a "dog" in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

The class had a blast with the role-playing drama activities. They did a great job.

Mother comforting jilted brides in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

Mother comforting jilted brides in Mr. Boone's 3rd grade class 2-12-09

The class was assigned the story rap, “Jackie Rabbit,” and I can’t wait to see Mr. Boone’s class perform it. It is going to be awesome!

After lunch, I visited Ms. Leboutillier’s preschool class. What a sweet group of students! They were ready for me as soon as I walked in! I told them the story of The Cajun Cornbread Boy and they fully participated in all the motions and songs.

Ms. Leboutillier's preschoolers listen to The Cajun Cornbread Boy 2-12-09

Ms. Leboutillier's preschoolers listen to The Cajun Cornbread Boy 2-12-09

Then we explored Louisiana through Cajun and Zydeco music and dance. And did we dance!

Preschoolers second line around the classroom 2-12-09

Preschoolers second line around the classroom 2-12-09

My last class was Ms. Muller’s preschool class. When I arrived, they were all napping. They had been on a field trip in the morning and were zonked out completely. After unsuccessfuly trying to rouse them, we decided it was better to let them rest. Fortunately, I will be visiting their class again.

Friday and Monday were off days for me so I headed for a nice 4 day weekend! I look forward to Week 2 with my Bissonet students.

Until next time…

Warmly, Dianne

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