The Oscar night is filled with accolades for the years of work that goes into making a film. The combined efforts of editors, costume design, sound and light designers, actors, directors, effects etc all who collaborate and work together for a fantastic outcome. I watched the evening thrilled for the nominees and winners alike for they all have achieved a point in their career where others appreciate their efforts.  We all strive to find success in our efforts and how blessed to find the accolades associated with your passion in the arts!

Pete Docter, the director of Inside Out gave a touching award winning speech. Art Educators around the country are cheering with you Pete! Thank you for seeing into the heart of our students who struggle to cope with the flood of different emotions that quickly change within them. Yes, they may not be able to change how they feel but they CAN change how they react. Students can create: films, music, art, dance, theater, or write! The power of the visual voice can help students to express those feelings inside that they may not have the words to say. Many artists find inspiration from memories, personal stories or our feelings and in that one Oscar moment we all can be affirmed that when we teach art we are supporting those who need to take what is inside and let it OUT!

Guest readers were district Administrators, James Madison President, City Councilman, School Board Member, Musician, Community Leaders, Realtor, DJs, and educators. Books were shared in Spanish, English and even through song.

Readers included: Daniel Kirwan (principal), Laura Feichtinger McGrath, Joanne Gabbin, President Alger, Gary Painter, Kathy Holter, Matt Hassman, Ron Ornstein, Jonathan Ruppel, Holly Bess Kincaid, Abe Shearer, JR Snow, Joe Glick, Brent Holsinger, Brandy Lindsey, Isabel Castillo, Molly Murphy, Margot Zahner, Sandy Parks, Ritchie Vaughan, Jessica Pyle

The arts and reading are vehicles to transport our students through their imagination to learn about cultures, people, far off lands and imagine worlds beyond our own. "Art is a place kids travel to, where they feel good about themselves. Keep their passport current."
Fred Babb, author and artist

To learn more about:

• World Read Aloud Day : http://www.litworld.org/wrad/_
• Youth Art Month : https://www.arteducators.org/news/articles/10-youth-art-month
• Some of my favorite art books: http://capitolofcreativity.weebly.com/art-books.html

I invite you in March to read aloud to a child, support the arts by going to your local Youth Art Month Exhibits and continue to celebrate creativity!