http://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_how_to_escape_education_s_death_valley.html
There was a comment that resonated particularly with me:
Marianne Haferkamp
Dec 29 2013: I am a creative person, and I am a kindergarten teacher!
While growing up my artistic abilities were never truly fostered by the
adults around me, however I am persistent or stubborn or both! I found a
way to practice drawing and painting. I joined a small dance studio but
soon after my parents could not afford it, so I joined the church choir
because it was free. I have vivid memories of my childhood spent
imagining, creating, reading, singing, dancing, drawing and painting. I
enrolled in every art class possible while in middle school and high
school (yes, our public school did have art classes in the 80's). I
enrolled in drama class and joined the drama club (the television
series, Glee would have been a huge hit if it were created). Funny thing
though, I always felt like the "odd girl" with many of my peers and now
I've grown into that role so beautifully as the "unique" teacher at
school! After college and feeling empty and lost I reenrolled to study
fine art. It was either art or prozac! I chose art for the sake of my
own two children and my sanity.I studied art with its many forms (no
hierarchy for me), but it was sculpture and ceramics I had not had an
opportunity to explore! I love ALL forms of art, and apply my knowledge
and abilities within my classroom each minute of the day I am with my
students. I empower my kindergartners and teach them to know and
understand it is they who are the very best artists in the world, and it
is unfortunately the adults who will squash their creativity. So my
next lesson is to teach them how not to be squashed! I hail Sir Ken
Robinson for taking this platform and delivering a meaningful message
about creativity and our education system. I finally feel validated as a
creative person who has found meaning in life teaching youngsters! I am
a prime candidate for teaching at one of those "alternative" schools,
and I may just have to look into it. I do agree it would be most
practical if the "alternative" were the "norm"!
