Down But Not Out
What do you do if you find yourself with out…money, supplies, job, room, or whatever? Cry, curse, call a friend, or all of the above? Well, it might feel good or cathartic to do any or all those things the only thing that will really help is to get in there and work, experiment, and take chances. I know that you feel that you are the only one facing these situations but you aren’t there are others who have “been there, done that, got the t-shirt”. Find them and they will help you even if it is just to give you ideas. This is the time to think outside of the box.
If you need money, find things you can do for free or that cost little to zero money or that use supplies that the school already supplies. Xerox machines for a variety of things, last conference I taught a workshop on handcoloring photographs using students photos, colored pencils, and a xerox. Teresa Gillum taught a workshop on tin can airplanes. Going to the fall conferences is an excellent way to pick up pointers. You could try grant writing. As you can tell I am not the best writer in the world but I have written and received about $17 thousand in grants. How did I start? I googled grants for art. Enjoy.
No job, go online the ALSDE has a terrific postings list at http://www.alsde.edu/TeachInAlabama/ . It is a great place to start. If you have some experience and a Masters degree try sending your resume to some junior colleges or regular colleges or universities. There are opportunities out there just open the doors.
No room? Well that is a tuffy…never experienced that one but…wait once…I looked around for any spare space and ended up teaching in a coal bin in a Victorian mansion. Some times there are little secret places that no one wants you might get it if you ask. I have been in a trailer for a while and that is not all that bad, I have had to tote water in buckets both in and out. It can be done but it is all about your attitude. Remaining positive. Remember it is all about the students and your classes and what they can learn.
I guess that is what you should REALLY do, focus on what you love…teaching art to students, sharing your love of art with people…your passion.
Good Luck next year.
