I will recruit students for the AP program by talking to them about their work, and helping them think about a series. I would like to start pushing the students into working outside of class time, over weekends and thinking about their art more. Another thing I plan on doing is making the Art department more known around the building. I started doing that last year, by making and painting a Christmas sleigh, and painting windows downtown for homecoming. This year I have added on painting murals around the building. Next year I have plans to do a few art related fundraisers, this will also help with my budget for the AP class.
Brittany, I agree that it is highly beneficial to AP and the entire art program to promote your students' work in the community. More visibility around school and the community provides valuable opportunities for students and also allows people to see the great things students are achieving at your school. Allowing other parents and students to be exposed to the art program will help to promote it.
I think that talking with students about their artwork and what direction they are willing to go with their art is very important. It not only helps build self-confidence within the student but also to figure out which areas are their strengths and what areas they need to work on.
My school has a strong art program with a growing AP class. The students enrolled in AP focus on a 2d or 3d portfolio mostly. Very few students do drawing or concentrate on photography. Photography is a growing class at our school and every time i ask those students if they are taking AP they did not know that was an option. I teach photography so that is one way i can recruit students. Another plan my peers and i have is to continue growing our upper level art courses. We lose a good percentage of our students after the entry level (drawing 1 or ceramics 1) and we want to promote the advanced options and encourage them to take AP. Several ways I plan to do that is by making the art relevant and interesting to them. I am also in charge of NAHS at my school and we have been working hard to promote the arts around the campus which has shown improvement in our enrollment as well. I also seek to find out why some students are opting to not continue with the advanced level. I know a major concern for our students is finding the time in their schedule.
I am also in charge of NAHS at my school and we also use projects around the school to recruit students into the art program. Every time my NAHS kids paint a new mural in the hallway, guidance counselors tell me that they have even more kids requesting to sign up for art! How fortunate are we to have programs that allow students to get excited for something that we are so passionate about!
Promoting through NAHS is a great idea, especially because that is where your advanced level students are.Next year, we have a prominant group of juniors that would be great for recruiting.
My school is planning to make the transition to a Fine Arts Magnet School in the 2018-19 school year. We will be getting students from a Fine Arts middle school that have taken art classes especially for gifted students. With that in mind, I have been building a scaffolded art program with classes that lead up to the AP level. Each student already must make a C or higher in Art Basics to move on to another art class (2D or 3D), this ensures that the students sitting in those valuable seats actually want to be there. I am personally requiring all of my AP participants to have made a A in Art Basics, 2D, and Advanced 2D. Because I teach all of the classes above Art Basics, the students must also get my personal approval to be in the course. I do not want just any students that qualify to sign up for AP art just to have the numbers. I want every single student in AP to be hardworking, trustworthy, and responsible. Even though all of our art classes are packed at 35 students, I plan to only accept 5 or less into the AP program the first year to emphasize the gravity of the course.
AP requires such a strong commitment so your rigor is warranted. I find the students that do the best on AP are the ones that are self motivated to work- those kids that do 5 drawings for homework when you only asked for three! Encouraging students to participate summer study courses in the arts also helps students build a stronger portfolio.
we meet with our new students to discuss AP for the following year. We also have a lecture/powerpoint that we use to show students examples of past AP Portfolios. Our best promoters for next years AP group are our current AP students. At the end of the year, a select group of seniors students, present their body of work to the underclassman. Our younger students examine the work of their peers and can see the positive benefits from being a part of AP Portfolio. The AP process is challenging for the students but the end result is a cohesive body of work and a portfolio that is a strong contender for scholarship and college acceptance.
Donna, it's great that the AP students will present their body of work to the underclassmen. This allows them to feel proud of their huge accomplishments and also promotes your AP program to the younger students. Allowing them to have a question and answer session with the AP students about their process may also be beneficial to them because it would provide insight into how they achieved their goals.
Students are the best recruiters. If they enjoy the program and process they will influence others. I love the idea of having the seniors discuss their work with the underclassmen.
I think this is a great idea that I'm going STEAL!! :) Since I'll be new to AP, I feel this is a wonderful option I could easily use to assist. The school I'm moving to is extremely tight nit, and I agree that students are the best recruiters!!
This is a fantastic idea! Marketing upper level work is how I have encouraged growth in my level two classes. I'm kicking myself for not trying this to recruit for AP!
I learned from my former mentor teacher that recruiting for AP art begins early – starting with the very first art class the students take. Setting high expectations for students and supporting them throughout their creative endeavors provides them with confidence and endurance. Informing students about the AP program early and telling them how the AP students used to be beginners just like them shows them they can achieve higher level art skills. Having students attend the AP art shows and providing them with opportunities to speak with the AP artists also helps them to feel connected to them. Students will see how proud the AP artists are of their accomplishments, which can be motivating. Communicating with parents early will also help to guide students down the path of AP. If parents realize their students have artistic talents, they are more likely to encourage them in their creativity and suggest more art classes. The AP program can seem overwhelming to students due to the complex body of work they must create, so it is important to be organized and help them to set achievable goals. I plan on implementing these strategies to promote the AP program at my school.
It must really be nice to have that mentor at your school, someone who can really show you the ropes. Showing the students past works and getting the parents involved is key!
As soon as I found out I was teaching AP I started reaching out to the other two art teachers at my school about keeping good Art 1 students in the program. We need to start pushing everyone through and keeping the ones who need to be encouraged. Some students slipped through the cracks between the years before I started, and I do not want to let that happen again!
A strong, challenging curriculum is a good way to recruit advanced art students. I want to work closely with the middle school teacher to help identify potential students. We can collaborate as the students transition from the middle school level to the high school level.
I completely agree! We've had trouble in the past connecting with the middle school teachers from our feeder schools. I am excited because there is a new teaching starting next year at one of the schools, and she is very open to collaboration. Fostering a love and appreciation of art at a young age will pay off in the long run!
When I taught Middle School, I made it a priority to meet with the High School. It was challenging at first but in the long run it helped to solidify our program.
When I student taught at Gaffney and Blacksburg High, I visited the lower level art classes to kind of “spy” on the talent and potential. Taking notes of students you see those in is important as well as talking with the other teachers in your department; getting their thoughts on which students they see fit for the AP program. Work ethic and positive are as important if not more important than talent and potential alone. Talent and potential can be grown, but a positive work ethic is a little harder to cultivate. Encouraging those students ahead of time gives them something to strive for and work towards. At the high school level, they’re pretty aware that only a select few get into an AP course.
Visiting lower level art classes is excellent. I also think you could take some of your AP students to the middle schools in your area to promote your program. Having taught middle and high school, I know how those middle school students look up to their elder counterparts. If your current AP students can engage and get those younger students excited, your program will continue to grow. I also agree that your classroom has to be a positive space. If kiddos know that the AP classroom is a safe space to take risks without the fear of failure, they are more likely to enroll.
I've found that looking even outside of art works too! Especially in the theatre world. I came across a student who was constructing a 3D display of a set build and was pretty amazed! I photographed and published the work in the schools literary magazine. We have to be ever vigilant scouts! haha
We do several things already within the program to hang on to the talented kids to keep them. The first thing we do is send out letters to parents for students we think have an aptitude for some part of the class, whether that be 2-d or 3-d. When a parent gets a letter from the school on letterhead and in an official envelope, they tend to pay more attention than my teacher said I was good. Another thing we do is have school wide art show openings and let the teachers bring their students through the gallery. They are always amazed by the work that is being created and want to be a part of it. Lastly, since I do have a bulk majority of the beginners, Art 1s, I try to be positive and give plenty and encouragement and feedback. They are just starting out and they need that boost to help them through. Everyone likes praise and when their hard work pays off it's all the better.
I would start talking about AP Art with students taking Art I. I would focus on students that I noticed were spending extra time outside of class working on sketchbook assignments and ones that have an interest in working on artwork outside of class assignments. I will encourage students with AP potential to continue with higher level Art classes and to build their portfolio. I also plan to talk with parents of gifted artists and share the possibilities that AP Art would have to offer their child.
I touched on this point in one of my other comments. Our department has a very strong entry level course of study. We offer Art 1, Ceramics 1, Crafts 1 and Digital Media Arts. These are all considered entry level classes and its these students that feed our upper level classes. Engaging and celebrating these students early on, encourages them to stick with the program. We include entry level classes in both our school's annual exhibit as well as other district/local art shows. We also display artwork throughout the school. This is effective because it makes the entry level students feel recognized and in a sense "even par" with upper levels. They can see where their work can go if they just stick with it. We also do a lot of work outside of the classroom. We create murals in the community and take part in arts related community activities. Students see and hear about what we are doing and want to be part of it also.
I will be the only art teacher at Aynor High. I'm happy about this because I like to really observe students. I will probably observe students I feel meet the criteria, and speak with them about it. Sometimes it's not always about the talent, but the drive/work-ethic of students. I have made many good student relationship because I saw something in them they didn't see in themselves. I will employ this method, too, and make sure I give all of my students equal consideration when speaking to them about AP options.
Being the only art teacher does have the benefit of getting to know your students. I even have other teachers telling me about artistic students that may not have made it into my classes. One senior I met this year could not take art because it conflicted with Graphic Communications at the Career Center. I was still able to advice him on a mural he came up with for the school for his Senior project and I got him to complete work on his own time for art shows and competitions.
It is definitely beneficial when you are the only art teacher and have the opportunity to see their work ethic. This year it was like pulling teeth at the end from my seniors to make sure everything was done, while my one junior was done over three weeks early. Good to know for next year to be prepared.
I begin recruiting for AP through direct observation in my beginning level design and photography classes. In my district all high school art students begin with a prerequisite design class. After passing they are able to take a level one class. By this time I have had the opportunity to get to know them and their work. After their level two course they are eligible to audition for our honors level studio courses. To encourage them to audition a letter explaining the program benefits, paired with an audition packet is mailed home. They seem honored to receive this mail and to have the opportunity to grow as an artist in our honors and AP programs. Following the studio course in 11th grade they continue to AP.
I think one of the best ways to recruit advanced students is to put their art in as many shows as possible, even when they are in Art 1. Even if it's only putting their work in our school's end of the year show, it really gives them a sense of pride to know that I thought their art worthy of submitting, and helps to boost their confidence in their own work. In addition, if/when they win at shows, it shows them that they can be successful as artists, whether they choose to pursue it as a full-time career or just a life-long passion. I also think that hosting a chapter of NAHS is a great way to recruit upper level students and get students involved in the program through service projects. We do a lot of fundraisers throughout the year that are designed not to just make money, but to be fun arts experiences for the students. For example, we do a pumpkin carving competition around Halloween, and then host a silent auction of the pumpkins to the faculty and students. We find the that students that stay involved in NAHS are much more likely to want to continue with the upper level courses. The third thing that I try to do with all of my students is to have a one-on-one conference with each student before making my recommendations for the next year. I find that a lot of students are on the fence about continuing in the art program only because of a lack of self-confidence, and sitting down with them and assuring them that they have potential really helps to get a lot of kids to sign up for Art 2 that otherwise wouldn't have. This helps to increase your upper levels, and therefore helps you to recruit more AP students in the long run.
Hmmmm...I may have to steal the pumpkin carving idea! We have done a Paint Nite where teachers, parents and students come and paint a "seasonal" canvas (like those paint/wine studios around town except without the wine :) It was very successful
I teach 6-8 at my school, so I am lucky to see the beginning stages of my students work. By the time they get to 8th grade I can start to recommend the advanced students to take the more advanced class their 8th grade year. Some of them already know they want to take art in high school and that is a great selling point, because I can give the high school my recommendations for them. Students in middle school also love the idea in being apart of a upper level class.
I teach Art I, Art 2, 3D and now Talented and Gifted as well as AP at my school. I am constantly observing students' work and looking to see who could be great for the AP studio art program. If I have taught a student who did great work in my Art 2 class (typically a drawing class) or in my 3D class, then I always ask if they are going to take more art classes. If they have plans to take AP their senior year of high school, I always recommend that the student take T&G their junior year. T&G allows for a student to explore different medias, techniques, subject matter, etc. and also allows me to see the student's drive in getting work completed or started (they struggle with coming up with new projects on their own). If the student is not sure if they should take AP or not, T&G is the perfect opportunity for students to focus on their own work without the dreaded 24 pieces of art that they need to submit for AP. I know that the other art teachers are also looking for the same criteria in students and so I am also willing to take recommendations from the other art teachers at my school (I am one of three).
At my new school, I will be teaching photography and working with those students who are not in Art 1. I would like to be able to talk to those students who are ready for this level. I will recruit students by talking to them about the AP program and what is required for them if in the program. I will talk to them about their work and help them think about what type of series that would like to create. AP requires a lot of time and effort not only working in the classroom but outside of the classroom as well.
I recruit in the classes that I teach now. I will show examples of what the AP class will be doing. I will look at the more art inclined students and really discuss with them what AP means and where it can take them.
The way to recruit to any program is to be visible. You need your administration, district, community and students to know that you exist. This visibility can come through art shows where you make sure to personally invite school board members, administrators and parents. Get your local newspaper to cover the show. A successful teacher will not only present students' work in the classroom, but throughout the school as well. Try to find a space, away from the art room, where you can display student art. You should also put up posters and make sure that your program gets attention during school announcements, especially if students are winning awards or are receiving special recognition. Watch for those high flying students and speak to them. All kids want success and want to be noticed. Encourage them to join your program. Finally, your best recruiters are your AP students. Teach them about defending and promoting their craft.
My plan to recruit AP students to my program Recruitment plan: 1. Gather information about the AP Studio Art Program a. Requirements for AP Studio Art Portfolio b. Cost for Students c. How to get into the AP Studio Art Program d. What can participating in the AP Studio Art Program do for the student 2. Educate recruitment team (teachers, counselors, students, parents, administration) a. Develop online resource for AP Studio Art Program i. Online resource information stored on my teacher/school web page ii. Links to additional AP Studio Art Program Resources b. Talk to teachers, counselors, and administration at faculty meetings c. Talk to students and parents at Meet the teacher d. Have meeting during evening and invite students and parents to provide information about the AP Studio Art Program 3. Cast a wider net a. Determine who is missing from my schools AP Studio Art Program i. Talk to the current AP teachers ii. Talk to School counselors b. Talk to students in underrepresented student population to ask why they aren’t in the AP Studio Art Program
This list is great! (and so well organized) I really like #2 on your list about reaching teachers, counselors, students, parents, and admin. These people are directly responsible for the students and what classes they take. Keeping them in the loop and drawing them into the program as well is a great idea.
Fortunately my school already has a strong AP program so most of my ideas are ways to get the word to even more students. One of my plans is to make sure students are making cutting edge work that is relivent to their lives. Due to teaching a majority of digital art I am constantly on the lookout for anything new and hip for my students to work on, constantly looking at modern trends in digital and analogue art, such as 3D printing and non traditional darkroom (lofi) techniques. Another way i plan to spread the word about my AP programs is by using social media as a tool to allow students to spread information by word of mouth. I would like to start in Instagram account, a Facebook page, Tumbler feed and a Snapchat User that are specifically for my Upper level and AP students to post on. I think that by bringing in a social media presence students will be more encouraged to share their work with their friends and make access to the work easily viewable. I would like to have a stronger art presence in the school, putting up more student work around the school for more students to see. I would also like to arrange for more art related field trips that only upper level classes are allowed to go on. Last of all i want to really promote the AP end of year show I recently went to an AP/IB end of year show that was held at a local skate-park with a DJ and was very impressed by the show. I think giving kids a real opportunity to actually present their work in a Cool/ Non-school related space gives it a real world authenticity that end of year art shows sometimes lack.
I can encourage students in my classes that they should take the class and try to earn college credit. I teach AP Studio Art during Advanced Photography so the class is a recruiting tool in itself because the advanced students can see what the AP students are doing. I think it is a great opportunity for the advanced students to see get a taste of the AP level of artwork, especially during Portfolio time as the students are selecting their artworks and putting their portfolios together. I have the AP students talk and explain some of the artwork choices. The advanced students are great at giving feedback. Next year I would like to have a art show in the school for just my AP students. That would give the class a lot of school exposure to all students. Now that we offer the class, the students talk about it, can plan for it, and guidance can push it to our advanced level students.
I agree that one of the biggest tools for encouragement is just seeing what the advanced students are already working on and having them talk to younger students about their work. I also showed my two AP interested students my AP portfolios from highschool and they seemed to enjoy seeing them, plus it gave them an idea of what an AP portfolio could look like and just HOW MUCH work it is in the first place! It's good for them to grasp the reality of how challenging the course will be before they dive right in, in my opinion.
I was looking back through and saw my comment never uploaded.
I intend on recruiting advanced art students to AP in a variety of different methods. I plan on starting a National Art Honors Society chapter at my school next year and I plan on definitely exposing my students to the possibility of AP Art through our meetings. I also have an Honors Art class from which the AP students will be selected...I will begin each year by speaking about AP and showing examples, explaining what the course is like, and just overall presenting it as a possibility for interested students. I already have a recommendation application set up via Google Drive for students interested in taking Honors Art. I have also been working with the art teacher at the middle school to select students who would be a good fit for Honors Art instead of Art 1, and even though the middle school is getting a new teacher next year, I still plan on keeping that line of communication and collaboration open. I'm also considering hosting an art show for my school (even though we already have a district and county level show) and possibly creating an art instagram page for my art students (with my principal's permission) to showcase student of the month and exhibits, etc. which may help generate more student interest. Another HS art teacher in my district did this last year and it was really inspiring.
I will recruit students for the AP program by talking to them about their work, and helping them think about a series. I would like to start pushing the students into working outside of class time, over weekends and thinking about their art more. Another thing I plan on doing is making the Art department more known around the building. I started doing that last year, by making and painting a Christmas sleigh, and painting windows downtown for homecoming. This year I have added on painting murals around the building. Next year I have plans to do a few art related fundraisers, this will also help with my budget for the AP class.
ReplyDeleteBrittany, I agree that it is highly beneficial to AP and the entire art program to promote your students' work in the community. More visibility around school and the community provides valuable opportunities for students and also allows people to see the great things students are achieving at your school. Allowing other parents and students to be exposed to the art program will help to promote it.
DeleteI think that talking with students about their artwork and what direction they are willing to go with their art is very important. It not only helps build self-confidence within the student but also to figure out which areas are their strengths and what areas they need to work on.
DeleteMy school has a strong art program with a growing AP class. The students enrolled in AP focus on a 2d or 3d portfolio mostly. Very few students do drawing or concentrate on photography. Photography is a growing class at our school and every time i ask those students if they are taking AP they did not know that was an option. I teach photography so that is one way i can recruit students. Another plan my peers and i have is to continue growing our upper level art courses. We lose a good percentage of our students after the entry level (drawing 1 or ceramics 1) and we want to promote the advanced options and encourage them to take AP. Several ways I plan to do that is by making the art relevant and interesting to them. I am also in charge of NAHS at my school and we have been working hard to promote the arts around the campus which has shown improvement in our enrollment as well. I also seek to find out why some students are opting to not continue with the advanced level. I know a major concern for our students is finding the time in their schedule.
ReplyDeleteI am also in charge of NAHS at my school and we also use projects around the school to recruit students into the art program. Every time my NAHS kids paint a new mural in the hallway, guidance counselors tell me that they have even more kids requesting to sign up for art! How fortunate are we to have programs that allow students to get excited for something that we are so passionate about!
DeletePromoting through NAHS is a great idea, especially because that is where your advanced level students are.Next year, we have a prominant group of juniors that would be great for recruiting.
DeleteMy school is planning to make the transition to a Fine Arts Magnet School in the 2018-19 school year. We will be getting students from a Fine Arts middle school that have taken art classes especially for gifted students. With that in mind, I have been building a scaffolded art program with classes that lead up to the AP level. Each student already must make a C or higher in Art Basics to move on to another art class (2D or 3D), this ensures that the students sitting in those valuable seats actually want to be there. I am personally requiring all of my AP participants to have made a A in Art Basics, 2D, and Advanced 2D. Because I teach all of the classes above Art Basics, the students
ReplyDeletemust also get my personal approval to be in the course. I do not want just any students that qualify to sign up for AP art just to have the numbers. I want every single student in AP to be hardworking, trustworthy, and responsible. Even though all of our art classes are packed at 35 students, I plan to only accept 5 or less into the AP program the first year to emphasize the gravity of the course.
AP requires such a strong commitment so your rigor is warranted. I find the students that do the best on AP are the ones that are self motivated to work- those kids that do 5 drawings for homework when you only asked for three! Encouraging students to participate summer study courses in the arts also helps students build a stronger portfolio.
Deletewe meet with our new students to discuss AP for the following year. We also have a lecture/powerpoint that we use to show students examples of past AP Portfolios. Our best promoters for next years AP group are our current AP students. At the end of the year, a select group of seniors students, present their body of work to the underclassman. Our younger students examine the work of their peers and can see the positive benefits from being a part of AP Portfolio. The AP process is challenging for the students but the end result is a cohesive body of work and a portfolio that is a strong contender for scholarship and college acceptance.
ReplyDeleteDonna, it's great that the AP students will present their body of work to the underclassmen. This allows them to feel proud of their huge accomplishments and also promotes your AP program to the younger students. Allowing them to have a question and answer session with the AP students about their process may also be beneficial to them because it would provide insight into how they achieved their goals.
DeleteStudents are the best recruiters. If they enjoy the program and process they will influence others. I love the idea of having the seniors discuss their work with the underclassmen.
DeleteI think this is a great idea that I'm going STEAL!! :) Since I'll be new to AP, I feel this is a wonderful option I could easily use to assist. The school I'm moving to is extremely tight nit, and I agree that students are the best recruiters!!
DeleteThis is a fantastic idea! Marketing upper level work is how I have encouraged growth in my level two classes. I'm kicking myself for not trying this to recruit for AP!
DeleteThis is a great idea! Once I get a program up and growing I will definitely consider this! Learn from those who have already done it!
DeleteI learned from my former mentor teacher that recruiting for AP art begins early – starting with the very first art class the students take. Setting high expectations for students and supporting them throughout their creative endeavors provides them with confidence and endurance. Informing students about the AP program early and telling them how the AP students used to be beginners just like them shows them they can achieve higher level art skills. Having students attend the AP art shows and providing them with opportunities to speak with the AP artists also helps them to feel connected to them. Students will see how proud the AP artists are of their accomplishments, which can be motivating. Communicating with parents early will also help to guide students down the path of AP. If parents realize their students have artistic talents, they are more likely to encourage them in their creativity and suggest more art classes. The AP program can seem overwhelming to students due to the complex body of work they must create, so it is important to be organized and help them to set achievable goals. I plan on implementing these strategies to promote the AP program at my school.
ReplyDeleteIt must really be nice to have that mentor at your school, someone who can really show you the ropes. Showing the students past works and getting the parents involved is key!
DeleteAs soon as I found out I was teaching AP I started reaching out to the other two art teachers at my school about keeping good Art 1 students in the program. We need to start pushing everyone through and keeping the ones who need to be encouraged. Some students slipped through the cracks between the years before I started, and I do not want to let that happen again!
DeleteA strong, challenging curriculum is a good way to recruit advanced art students. I want to work closely with the middle school teacher to help identify potential students. We can collaborate as the students transition from the middle school level to the high school level.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree! We've had trouble in the past connecting with the middle school teachers from our feeder schools. I am excited because there is a new teaching starting next year at one of the schools, and she is very open to collaboration. Fostering a love and appreciation of art at a young age will pay off in the long run!
DeleteWhen I taught Middle School, I made it a priority to meet with the High School. It was challenging at first but in the long run it helped to solidify our program.
DeleteWhen I student taught at Gaffney and Blacksburg High, I visited the lower level art classes to kind of “spy” on the talent and potential. Taking notes of students you see those in is important as well as talking with the other teachers in your department; getting their thoughts on which students they see fit for the AP program. Work ethic and positive are as important if not more important than talent and potential alone. Talent and potential can be grown, but a positive work ethic is a little harder to cultivate. Encouraging those students ahead of time gives them something to strive for and work towards. At the high school level, they’re pretty aware that only a select few get into an AP course.
ReplyDeleteVisiting lower level art classes is excellent. I also think you could take some of your AP students to the middle schools in your area to promote your program. Having taught middle and high school, I know how those middle school students look up to their elder counterparts. If your current AP students can engage and get those younger students excited, your program will continue to grow. I also agree that your classroom has to be a positive space. If kiddos know that the AP classroom is a safe space to take risks without the fear of failure, they are more likely to enroll.
DeleteGreat Idea. Art I is a great place to look for students with potential.
DeleteI've found that looking even outside of art works too! Especially in the theatre world. I came across a student who was constructing a 3D display of a set build and was pretty amazed! I photographed and published the work in the schools literary magazine. We have to be ever vigilant scouts! haha
DeleteWe do several things already within the program to hang on to the talented kids to keep them. The first thing we do is send out letters to parents for students we think have an aptitude for some part of the class, whether that be 2-d or 3-d. When a parent gets a letter from the school on letterhead and in an official envelope, they tend to pay more attention than my teacher said I was good. Another thing we do is have school wide art show openings and let the teachers bring their students through the gallery. They are always amazed by the work that is being created and want to be a part of it. Lastly, since I do have a bulk majority of the beginners, Art 1s, I try to be positive and give plenty and encouragement and feedback. They are just starting out and they need that boost to help them through. Everyone likes praise and when their hard work pays off it's all the better.
ReplyDeleteI would start talking about AP Art with students taking Art I. I would focus on students that I noticed were spending extra time outside of class working on sketchbook assignments and ones that have an interest in working on artwork outside of class assignments. I will encourage students with AP potential to continue with higher level Art classes and to build their portfolio. I also plan to talk with parents of gifted artists and share the possibilities that AP Art would have to offer their child.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good idea since these will likely be the students interested.
DeleteI touched on this point in one of my other comments. Our department has a very strong entry level course of study. We offer Art 1, Ceramics 1, Crafts 1 and Digital Media Arts. These are all considered entry level classes and its these students that feed our upper level classes. Engaging and celebrating these students early on, encourages them to stick with the program. We include entry level classes in both our school's annual exhibit as well as other district/local art shows. We also display artwork throughout the school. This is effective because it makes the entry level students feel recognized and in a sense "even par" with upper levels. They can see where their work can go if they just stick with it.
ReplyDeleteWe also do a lot of work outside of the classroom. We create murals in the community and take part in arts related community activities. Students see and hear about what we are doing and want to be part of it also.
I will be the only art teacher at Aynor High. I'm happy about this because I like to really observe students. I will probably observe students I feel meet the criteria, and speak with them about it. Sometimes it's not always about the talent, but the drive/work-ethic of students. I have made many good student relationship because I saw something in them they didn't see in themselves. I will employ this method, too, and make sure I give all of my students equal consideration when speaking to them about AP options.
ReplyDeleteBeing the only art teacher does have the benefit of getting to know your students. I even have other teachers telling me about artistic students that may not have made it into my classes. One senior I met this year could not take art because it conflicted with Graphic Communications at the Career Center. I was still able to advice him on a mural he came up with for the school for his Senior project and I got him to complete work on his own time for art shows and competitions.
DeleteIt is definitely beneficial when you are the only art teacher and have the opportunity to see their work ethic. This year it was like pulling teeth at the end from my seniors to make sure everything was done, while my one junior was done over three weeks early. Good to know for next year to be prepared.
DeleteI begin recruiting for AP through direct observation in my beginning level design and photography classes. In my district all high school art students begin with a prerequisite design class. After passing they are able to take a level one class. By this time I have had the opportunity to get to know them and their work. After their level two course they are eligible to audition for our honors level studio courses. To encourage them to audition a letter explaining the program benefits, paired with an audition packet is mailed home. They seem honored to receive this mail and to have the opportunity to grow as an artist in our honors and AP programs. Following the studio course in 11th grade they continue to AP.
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ReplyDeleteI think one of the best ways to recruit advanced students is to put their art in as many shows as possible, even when they are in Art 1. Even if it's only putting their work in our school's end of the year show, it really gives them a sense of pride to know that I thought their art worthy of submitting, and helps to boost their confidence in their own work. In addition, if/when they win at shows, it shows them that they can be successful as artists, whether they choose to pursue it as a full-time career or just a life-long passion. I also think that hosting a chapter of NAHS is a great way to recruit upper level students and get students involved in the program through service projects. We do a lot of fundraisers throughout the year that are designed not to just make money, but to be fun arts experiences for the students. For example, we do a pumpkin carving competition around Halloween, and then host a silent auction of the pumpkins to the faculty and students. We find the that students that stay involved in NAHS are much more likely to want to continue with the upper level courses. The third thing that I try to do with all of my students is to have a one-on-one conference with each student before making my recommendations for the next year. I find that a lot of students are on the fence about continuing in the art program only because of a lack of self-confidence, and sitting down with them and assuring them that they have potential really helps to get a lot of kids to sign up for Art 2 that otherwise wouldn't have. This helps to increase your upper levels, and therefore helps you to recruit more AP students in the long run.
ReplyDeleteHmmmm...I may have to steal the pumpkin carving idea! We have done a Paint Nite where teachers, parents and students come and paint a "seasonal" canvas (like those paint/wine studios around town except without the wine :) It was very successful
DeleteI teach 6-8 at my school, so I am lucky to see the beginning stages of my students work. By the time they get to 8th grade I can start to recommend the advanced students to take the more advanced class their 8th grade year. Some of them already know they want to take art in high school and that is a great selling point, because I can give the high school my recommendations for them. Students in middle school also love the idea in being apart of a upper level class.
ReplyDeleteI teach Art I, Art 2, 3D and now Talented and Gifted as well as AP at my school. I am constantly observing students' work and looking to see who could be great for the AP studio art program. If I have taught a student who did great work in my Art 2 class (typically a drawing class) or in my 3D class, then I always ask if they are going to take more art classes. If they have plans to take AP their senior year of high school, I always recommend that the student take T&G their junior year. T&G allows for a student to explore different medias, techniques, subject matter, etc. and also allows me to see the student's drive in getting work completed or started (they struggle with coming up with new projects on their own). If the student is not sure if they should take AP or not, T&G is the perfect opportunity for students to focus on their own work without the dreaded 24 pieces of art that they need to submit for AP. I know that the other art teachers are also looking for the same criteria in students and so I am also willing to take recommendations from the other art teachers at my school (I am one of three).
ReplyDeleteAt my new school, I will be teaching photography and working with those students who are not in Art 1. I would like to be able to talk to those students who are ready for this level. I will recruit students by talking to them about the AP program and what is required for them if in the program. I will talk to them about their work and help them think about what type of series that would like to create. AP requires a lot of time and effort not only working in the classroom but outside of the classroom as well.
ReplyDeleteI recruit in the classes that I teach now. I will show examples of what the AP class will be doing. I will look at the more art inclined students and really discuss with them what AP means and where it can take them.
ReplyDeleteThe way to recruit to any program is to be visible. You need your administration, district, community and students to know that you exist. This visibility can come through art shows where you make sure to personally invite school board members, administrators and parents. Get your local newspaper to cover the show. A successful teacher will not only present students' work in the classroom, but throughout the school as well. Try to find a space, away from the art room, where you can display student art. You should also put up posters and make sure that your program gets attention during school announcements, especially if students are winning awards or are receiving special recognition. Watch for those high flying students and speak to them. All kids want success and want to be noticed. Encourage them to join your program. Finally, your best recruiters are your AP students. Teach them about defending and promoting their craft.
ReplyDeleteMy plan to recruit AP students to my program
ReplyDeleteRecruitment plan:
1. Gather information about the AP Studio Art Program
a. Requirements for AP Studio Art Portfolio
b. Cost for Students
c. How to get into the AP Studio Art Program
d. What can participating in the AP Studio Art Program do for the student
2. Educate recruitment team (teachers, counselors, students, parents, administration)
a. Develop online resource for AP Studio Art Program
i. Online resource information stored on my teacher/school web page
ii. Links to additional AP Studio Art Program Resources
b. Talk to teachers, counselors, and administration at faculty meetings
c. Talk to students and parents at Meet the teacher
d. Have meeting during evening and invite students and parents to provide information about the AP Studio Art Program
3. Cast a wider net
a. Determine who is missing from my schools AP Studio Art Program
i. Talk to the current AP teachers
ii. Talk to School counselors
b. Talk to students in underrepresented student population to ask why they aren’t in the AP Studio Art Program
This list is great! (and so well organized) I really like #2 on your list about reaching teachers, counselors, students, parents, and admin. These people are directly responsible for the students and what classes they take. Keeping them in the loop and drawing them into the program as well is a great idea.
DeleteFortunately my school already has a strong AP program so most of my ideas are ways to get the word to even more students.
ReplyDeleteOne of my plans is to make sure students are making cutting edge work that is relivent to their lives. Due to teaching a majority of digital art I am constantly on the lookout for anything new and hip for my students to work on, constantly looking at modern trends in digital and analogue art, such as 3D printing and non traditional darkroom (lofi) techniques.
Another way i plan to spread the word about my AP programs is by using social media as a tool to allow students to spread information by word of mouth. I would like to start in Instagram account, a Facebook page, Tumbler feed and a Snapchat User that are specifically for my Upper level and AP students to post on. I think that by bringing in a social media presence students will be more encouraged to share their work with their friends and make access to the work easily viewable.
I would like to have a stronger art presence in the school, putting up more student work around the school for more students to see.
I would also like to arrange for more art related field trips that only upper level classes are allowed to go on.
Last of all i want to really promote the AP end of year show I recently went to an AP/IB end of year show that was held at a local skate-park with a DJ and was very impressed by the show. I think giving kids a real opportunity to actually present their work in a Cool/ Non-school related space gives it a real world authenticity that end of year art shows sometimes lack.
I can encourage students in my classes that they should take the class and try to earn college credit. I teach AP Studio Art during Advanced Photography so the class is a recruiting tool in itself because the advanced students can see what the AP students are doing. I think it is a great opportunity for the advanced students to see get a taste of the AP level of artwork, especially during Portfolio time as the students are selecting their artworks and putting their portfolios together. I have the AP students talk and explain some of the artwork choices. The advanced students are great at giving feedback. Next year I would like to have a art show in the school for just my AP students. That would give the class a lot of school exposure to all students. Now that we offer the class, the students talk about it, can plan for it, and guidance can push it to our advanced level students.
ReplyDeleteI agree that one of the biggest tools for encouragement is just seeing what the advanced students are already working on and having them talk to younger students about their work. I also showed my two AP interested students my AP portfolios from highschool and they seemed to enjoy seeing them, plus it gave them an idea of what an AP portfolio could look like and just HOW MUCH work it is in the first place! It's good for them to grasp the reality of how challenging the course will be before they dive right in, in my opinion.
DeleteI was looking back through and saw my comment never uploaded.
ReplyDeleteI intend on recruiting advanced art students to AP in a variety of different methods. I plan on starting a National Art Honors Society chapter at my school next year and I plan on definitely exposing my students to the possibility of AP Art through our meetings. I also have an Honors Art class from which the AP students will be selected...I will begin each year by speaking about AP and showing examples, explaining what the course is like, and just overall presenting it as a possibility for interested students. I already have a recommendation application set up via Google Drive for students interested in taking Honors Art. I have also been working with the art teacher at the middle school to select students who would be a good fit for Honors Art instead of Art 1, and even though the middle school is getting a new teacher next year, I still plan on keeping that line of communication and collaboration open. I'm also considering hosting an art show for my school (even though we already have a district and county level show) and possibly creating an art instagram page for my art students (with my principal's permission) to showcase student of the month and exhibits, etc. which may help generate more student interest. Another HS art teacher in my district did this last year and it was really inspiring.