Magnet Schools Educators Attend MFAH Workshop

Magnet school teachers and coordinators from across Aldine ISD recently attended a workshop presented by the Museum of Fine Arts Houston.

Approximately 50 teachers and coordinators attended the Learning Through the Arts workshop. Educators learned how to connect art across the curriculum. Everyone received a LTA curriculum kit for his or her school.

The LTA curriculum enables students to be to make connections with the real world. It integrates art to teach literacy and writing skills, math, science and social studies.

The workshop included discussions and hands-on art projects using everyday materials. MFAH presenters discussed ways to teach students to use critical and creative thinking skills.

The Magnet Schools Department made the workshop possible for AISD educators.

“The curriculum stresses inquiry-based learning to help students develop their cognitive skills,” said Olivia Boatner, magnet schools director. “This is definitely something that benefits students.”

Denise Gaudiano, magnet curriculum specialist and fine arts chair at Houston Academy, organized the event. She lauded Rita Whiteman and LuAnn Turley who have worked with the MFAH Education Department for nearly 20 years.

“LuAnn Turley and Rita Whiteman are knowledgeable about the content,” said Gaudiano. “The presentation included a number of ways to use art in the curriculum to help students learn. The curriculum not only helps students be more knowledgeable about art but it also leaves them inspired by it.”