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Funding for the Iowa Alliance for Arts Education’s (IAAE) "Model of Excellence" mentoring program has been approved by the 2026 Iowa legislature for the 2026-2027 school year. This is the 12th consecutive year that funding for the nationally recognized IAAE mentor program has been passed by the Iowa legislature.
According to the IAAE’s website, the program is designed to “enhance, not supplant the established local/district/AEA/State mentoring programs,” instead aiming to provide individualized, discipline-specific mentorship and networking opportunities for teachers new to the profession.
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On April 22, Fine Arts Education Program Consultant Diana Hawley visited the Red Oak Community School District as part of her ongoing work to connect with, learn from, and champion the work of fine arts educators across Iowa. The visit provided an opportunity to learn more about program goals, hear directly from teachers about how they are sustaining vibrant arts programs, and celebrate the work happening in their classrooms. |
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Art teachers Jacque Stephens and Ireland Palmer, and music teachers Tim Marsden, Terra Marsden, Kelsie Schmidt, and Chase Hohanshelt welcomed Diana with warmth and enthusiasm, reflecting the same dedication and care they show to their students every day.
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Carly Schieffer's music methods students at Mount Mercy University are preparing to step into the profession, and on April 20, Fine Arts Education Program Consultant Diana Hawley had the privilege of spending time with them. Students shared peer teaching lessons, explored the Iowa Fine Arts Standards, and experienced a demonstration lesson rooted in the Orff Schulwerk approach. Their candid reflections on practicum experiences, observations of the field, and excitement about what lies ahead offered a hopeful glimpse into the future of fine arts education in Iowa. |
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A professional development opportunity of interest to Iowa music educators is coming to Cedar Rapids this June. The World Music Drumming Workshop, created by Dr. Will Schmid in collaboration with Ghanaian Master Drummer Sowah Mensah, will be held June 21–26 at Prairie High School. The workshop introduces participants to West African, Caribbean, and Latin drumming and singing traditions through a sequential, student-centered curriculum designed to build skills in listening, focus, teamwork, and community. |
Levels 1, 2, and 3 are available, making it accessible to both first-time participants and returning educators. Iowa teachers may also earn 2 license renewal credits for an additional $100; no extra coursework required. Registration is open now, with discounted pricing available through May 15.
For full details and to register, visit www.worldmusicdrumming.com.
Curriculum and instruction are local decisions within Iowa's requirements and supported by recommended standards. Links to external opportunities or materials are for general awareness and do not constitute endorsement or recommendation.
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Join the Department’s Fine Arts Education Program Consultant, Diana Hawley, every third Tuesday of the month from 3:30– 4:30 p.m. Drop in and ask questions related to state arts standards and arts education requirements during our monthly office hours.
Fine Arts Office Hours Zoom Link
To be added to the Arts Curriculum Leaders contact list to receive future information and meeting invites, contact Diana Hawley at diana.hawley@iowa.gov.
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Iowa All-State Jazz Band Performance | Jazz Educators of Iowa (JEI) | May 14, 2026 | Des Moines Marriott, Downtown
Iowa Bandmasters Association (IBA) 2026 IBA Conference | May 14-15, 2026 | Des Moines Marriott, Downtown
World Music Drumming (Levels I, II & III) | June 21-26, 2026 | Prairie High School, Cedar Rapids
First Iowa Orff | Orff Schulwerk Teacher Education Course (Level I) | June 15-26, 2026 | Drake University, Des Moines
Iowa Choral Directors Association (ICDA) Summer Symposium | July 20-22, 2026 | Pella, IA
Reach out to Diana to include your conference or workshop in next month’s Fine Arts Exchange.
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Diana Hawley, DMA
Education Program Consultant, Fine Arts
Bureau of Academic and Learner Supports
Iowa Department of Education
Grimes State Office Building
400 E 14th St
Des Moines, IA 50319
515-371-0410
diana.hawley@iowa.gov
https://educate.iowa.gov
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