Framingham Fine and Performing Arts
Outstanding Arts Education for Every Child
February 17, 2021
As I am sure you know DESE has once again denied our request to lighten the restrictions on singing in schools. This is devastating to our kids and our program. It is also very confusing based on some of the recent decisions to remove restrictions on other activities.
In response many arts leaders in the state are signing on to the letter below. I am sharing for your information.
Band Begins in Grade Five on March 15
PLEASE DO NOT BEGIN PLAYING BEFORE THIS DATE.
With a tremendous amount of time and effort (thank you Ellen and Principals) we have ordered PPE for our band students in Elementary, Middle (after school program) and FHS. The very large order should be in the week of March 8. It will be delivered to FHS where we will sort it and then deliver it to you at your schools.
In this newsletter I have included the DESE guidelines for playing. We have far exceeded this requirement. Your Principals have this information as well and will be working with you to insure you have a space that allows for 10 feet of distancing
.
In this newsletter I have also included the spreadsheet with your PPE requests. This is what we have ordered.
In this newsletter I have included links to the vendor to show you the PPE we have purchased. Your Principals have this information as well.
Framingham students will finally join their peers from the state who have been playing since September. I am confident you will join me in celebrating their excitement.
Use and Care Guide
- DO NOT use bleach
- DO NOT use fabric softeners
- DO NOT use harsh detergents or soaps
- AVOID washing garments in warm or hot water
- DO NOT soak or leave wet in a pile
- DO NOT heavily scrub, wring, or twist garments
- DO NOT bulk wash
- DO NOT dry clean
Google Doc - I will keep this here for a few weeks- Add questions if you have them please
If no one adds concerns after our March start I will take this out of the newsletter.
Additional Welcome Back Tips
Welcome back
- Model good coping behaviors for students – calm, honest, and caring
- Take care of yourself and know your limits
- Provide clear information for families as soon as possible
- Express empathy for students, parents and colleagues
- Gradual rollout. Curriculum isn't as important as kids!
- Make time for yourself after school. Read, exercise, practice yoga or take a nap.
- Ask for help if you need it. You are not alone. You are the best teachers I know.
Classroom visits
Lesson Plans and Resources
Please plan to incorporate this lesson in the next few weeks
K-5 Visual Art and Music Teachers
K-5 Music- We will be joining our Visual Arts colleagues on a STEAM lesson as well. Sarah SIlva and PJ will work together on this one. The lesson and supplies will be in your hands before break so you have time to adjust your schedule.
Thanks, so much to Andrea, Sam and Sarah for taking this on.
More to come.
Classroom Resources
Some great video resources for arts education- Take a look
Resources for every arts teacher
If you haven't signed already -Please sign the pledge.
National Arts Education Campaign
Arts ARE Education is a new national campaign in support of arts education for all students
Sign the pledge below and click on the link above please and pass it along!
Donna A Wresinski
Email: dwresinski@framingham.k12.ma.us
Website: https://www.framingham.k12.ma.us/Domain/74
Phone: 508 782 7770
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FraminghamFPA/