Episode 219: Reflections & Realities in the Classroom
In this end-of-year episode, hosts Matt Grundler and Dr. Mi’Jan Celie Tho-Biaz sit down with Connected Arts Network (CAN) educators Cody Puckett and Kim Guadagnoli to reflect on the journey of the past school year. Together, they dive into the highs and lows of teaching, exploring personal growth, professional challenges, and the powerful role of action research in shaping a more responsive and engaging arts curriculum. Cody and Kim share practical strategies they’ve implemented to increase student buy-in on creative projects, build stronger classroom connections, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of arts education. Tune in to hear more of Cody and Kim’s insights that you can bring into your classroom next year!
About Connected Arts Networks (CAN): The National Art Education Association (NAEA), in partnership with the Educational Theater Association, National Association for Music Education, National Dance Education Organization, and NYC Department of Education’s Office of Arts and Special Projects has launched a nationwide initiative to create virtual Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). The goal of this Connected Arts Networks (CAN) is to build a sustainable model of professional learning to help teachers better serve students.
Resources
Guests
Dr. Mi’Jan Celie Tho-Biaz
Oral Historian and Co-Host
Cody Puckett
Music Educator from Davenport, Florida
Kim Guadagnoli
Theatre Educator from Grand Terrace, California
CAN Partner Organizations
- National Art Education Association
- National Association for Music Education
- National Dance Education Organization
- Educational Theater Association
- NYC Dept. of Education’s Office of Arts and Special Projects (OASP)
Links
- Connected Arts Networks information on NAEA website
- CAN Press Release
- Center for Leadership and Educational Equity (CLEE)
- NAEA ED&I Hub
- Meet the new CAN Teacher Participants!
- Center for Leadership and Educational Equity (CLEE)
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