|
|
September 2025
Welcome Back!
I hope this newsletter finds your refreshed and rejuvinated for another school year! I'm confident many of you have a long list of "to do" items already created regarding the start to the new year. My hope, as always, is to CONNECT you to great people, resources, and information that will benefit you and your students.
Look for these newsletters once a month during the school year. Consider sharing this with your colleagues and encourage them to join the listserv here:
Click to subscribe
Wishing you a successful start to the school year!
Gratefully,
Chris
|
|
|
Public Comment Now Open for MUSIC and THEATRE Wisconsin Standards Revision Process
Academic standards define what students should know and be able to do in an area of study. In Wisconsin, all state standards serve as a model. Locally elected school boards adopt academic standards in each subject area to best serve their local community as stipulated via Wisconsin state statute 118.30
The survey is part of the revision and review cycle that all Wisconsin academic standards go through. Your responses will be shared with the State Superintendent’s Academic Standards Review Council, who may or may not recommend revision to the State Superintendent. If the State Superintendent determines revisions are necessary, your responses will be further shared with a writing committee. A link is include if you would like to be considered for one of the standards writing teams.
Below please find links to the music and theatre standards surveys.
- Please complete the survey(s) only once.
- We will only consider feedback from Wisconsin residents.
- The surveys close on October 1, 2025.
MUSIC
THEATRE
|
DPI Reorganization
As part of our strategic plan, the Wisconsin
Department of Public Instruction has reorganized
to better meet the needs of students, educators,
schools, and communities. While our internal
structure has changed, our mission remains the same—
and our ability to support you is stronger than ever. Learn more on this one page overview.
|
|
 |
2025 Creativity Summit Video Now Available
On August 21 our conversation explored the essential role of creativity in education, honoring the legacy of Sir Ken Robinson. It emphasized the importance of fostering a culture that values creativity, personal development, and community collaboration. The speakers shared insights on how to create conditions that allow every individual to thrive and express their unique brilliance, ultimately transforming educational practices and systems.
|
Fall Conference Attendance Letter to Administrators
Each year in August I send out a letter to all Wisconsin District Administrators informing them about our state fall arts conferences and asking permission for you to attend. I state in the letter,
"I am asking for your encouragement and support of your art educators in building their knowledge and professional skills by providing release time for their participation in a statewide conference within their content area. Thank you for your partnership in fostering a comprehensive education for our children and for supporting the continual building of professional capacity in our educators."
Admittedly, this is a local control decision but I want to be sure to voice my support and encouragement. If you haven't already, consider registering for one of the state conferences. Having attended many conferences across the nation, I can tell you that we are blessed to have great organizations that offer these amazing opportunities to connect and grow.
Alliance for Wisconsin Theatre Education Conference – UW-Stevens Point, September 19, 2025
Wisconsin Dance Council Conference – East HS, Green Bay, October 11, 2025
Wisconsin Art Education Association Conference – Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee, October 23-24, 2025
Wisconsin State Music Conference – Monona Terrace, Madison, October 29-November 1, 2025
|
National Arts in Education Week is September 14-20
National Arts in Education Week is a nationwide celebration highlighting the transformative impact of the arts in education. Passed by Congress in 2010, this week is dedicated to showcasing the importance of the arts in education, encouraging elected officials and educational leaders across the country to find ways to ensure all students, regardless of background, have equal access to arts programs. Learn More Here
|
Mark Your Calendars - Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project 2025 "Connection" Goes LIVE on November 7!
Now in its third year, the Wisconsin Arts Celebration Project (WACP) continues to demonstrate the interconnectedness of the arts and the unique capacity it has to teach essential human capacities. The 2025 WACP centers on the theme of “Connection”. As researcher and author, Brene Brown stated, "Connection is why we're here. We are hardwired to connect with others, it's what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it there is suffering." Wisconsin Poet Laureate, Nicholas Gulig, has crafted a poem entitled, "Yellow Birds of Morning" relates how words and music connect us to each other and the world. This deeply rich poem serves as a "touchpoint" for all of the other artistic creations including the following commissioned works.
The project will "Go LIVE" on the Arts & Creativity Page of the DPI Website on November 7. To learn more and to see a list of our contributing artists and educators, head to our website: https://dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts/wisconsin-arts-celebration-project-2025-biographies
Artists & Musicians to Shine at State of Education Address in September
Each year in September the State Superintendent of Public Instruction addresses hundreds at an event in the State Capitol Rotunda regarind the state of education in Wisconsin. Music has played a significant role in this event for many years. This year the event will include multiple musicians, visual artwork from students across Wisconsin and a poet.
This year's musicians include:
This year's event will take place Thursday, September 18, 2025 -12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. You can watch it live on Wisconsin Eye https://wiseye.org/
|
Willow Newell, Miss Wisconsin 2025, Shares The Impact Arts Has Had On Her Life
In this interview, Willow Newell, Wisconsin’s first Black Miss Wisconsin and founder of The ART of Belonging, sits down with Chris Gleason of DPI to discuss her platform’s mission to bring inclusive arts access to every community member. She shares her personal journey and the transformative impact of the arts in fostering creativity, belonging, and confidence across Wisconsin. Tune in to learn how Willow hopes to amplify stories and build connections that celebrate the power of creative expression statewide. Watch the video here (approx. 12 min)
|
Artist Warren King Interview
In this interview, we delve into the profound influence of family history on the captivating artwork of Warren King, who transforms humble cardboard into stunning sculptures. Discover how ancestral stories and cultural heritage shape his creative process, leading to pieces that resonate with both personal and universal themes. Join us as we explore the intersection of art and lineage, and uncover the stories behind Warren's most iconic works. Watch The Video Here (approx. 28 min)
|
|
|
Taking Dance Education Back to School
This summer marks the third year of UW Dance Exchange bringing dynamic dance instruction directly into public schools across Wisconsin. Spearheaded by Dance Department faculty member Chell Parkins, the initiative not only enriches arts education but aims to make movement and creative expression a permanent and accessible part of the school day. Dive into the full story to learn how UW–Madison is expanding educational horizons through the power of dance. Read More Here
|
High school students unveil new music-themed mural they painted in downtown Appleton
A new music-themed mural in downtown Appleton made its debut Friday night.
It's part of an annual two-week summer program where students partner with an artist to create more art in the city. Watch Video Here
|
’It’s where healing takes place’: Racine students turn up their love for music with new studio
While summer is quickly approaching, students with the Racine Unified School District are staying focused thanks to a new addition to Racine Alternative Learning.
In January 2025, Racine Alternative Learning opened its very own state-of-the-art music studio. The studio is funded by a grant from United Way. Read More Here
|
See artwork created by Wisconsin K-12 students
See a variety of artwork submitted to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel demonstrating some amazing student skills. Read More Here
|
Greendale High School band headed to 2026 Rose Parade
Greendale High School Band has been selected as one of the 19 marching bands from around the world—including Japan and Mexico—that will participate in the 2026 Rose Parade.
According to the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association, the bands were selected by a committee of the Association’s volunteer members based on various criteria, including musicianship, marching ability, and entertainment or special interest value. Watch More Here
|
Student art murals bring beauty to Fort Atkinson community
FORT ATKINSON — Leaning in close to the green and blue painted waves, Grae Szabo, an incoming sophomore at Fort Atkinson High School, angled her paintbrush to work within the texturized pattern.
Over the summer, students at the high school, along with art teacher Angie Szabo, have been working on two murals as part of the Mural Marathon Camp, a summer school program. Read More Here
|
|
|
 |
|
Three times each semester, UW–Madison shares a round-up of articles, events, and highlights from across campus arts — from music and theatre to visual art, design, writing, and more. This resource celebrates the thriving arts community and invites students, faculty, staff, and alumni to share their stories. Check it out here |
 Modern Music Making For All Students
Are you looking to increase student engagement, adapt to new technology, and prepare students for careers in music without giving up preparation and instructional time?
Electronic Music ELEMENTS is a turnkey music production and media arts curriculum that helps teachers bring modern music, cultural relevance, and career connections into the classroom.
Students use Soundtrap, accessible on any device (Windows, Mac, Chromebook, or iPad), to create radio-ready music in genres they connect with, such as hip hop, pop, and dance.
Through projects like podcasting, songwriting, radio commercials, music for film, and video game music, students strengthen their production skills while exploring real-world careers. The curriculum requires no prior experience for either students or teachers, and it is easy and fun to implement.
Every project is standards-aligned and integrates naturally with ELA and STEM concepts, fostering cross-curricular connections while building 21st-century skills in creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Its flexible format allows teachers to adapt lessons for different grade levels, schedules, and technology access, making it an affordable and scalable option for schools statewide.
Created by Eric Jao (former DJ for Madonna) and Bob Habersat (Yamaha 40 Under 40 music educator), Electronic Music ELEMENTS makes modern music-making accessible to all students.
Get some BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS and learn more with free sample lessons CLICK HERE If you are interested in piloting ELEMENTS, email pilots@emusicelements.com.
|
|
Bring the World to Your Classroom
Through the NEA Foundation Global Learning Fellowship, public school educators develop the knowledge and skills to integrate global competency into their daily classroom instruction, advocate for global competency in their schools and districts, and help students to thrive in our increasingly interconnected world. Fellows transform their classrooms to give students a global perspective. Learn More and Apply Here
|
NEA Foundation Educator Grants
Learn more about the numerous grants that the NEAF offers each year. Application materials and more resources can be found here.
|
National Art Education Foundation (NAEF)
Available to NAEA members, offering multiple targeted grants:
Ruth Halvorsen Professional Development Grant — up to $3,000
Mary McMullan Grants — up to $3,000 for classroom-based projects
Research Grants — up to $10,500 for arts education research
SHIP Grants — up to $1,000 for art equipment
Learn More Here
|
|
|
Check out our newest success story, Arts Integration at Memorial Spaulding Elementary School, by Alexandra Etscovitz! For over a decade, Memorial Spaulding Elementary School has created an environment where students, teachers, administration, families and communities can collaborate to create arts integration experiences that benefit all. A Memorial Spaulding second grade teacher poignantly said, "Finding ways to incorporate the arts in content learning means finding ways to help all kids be successful. Art gives every student an access point to whatever learning we are doing and also challenges students to do more open ended and flexible thinking.”
Read the whole story to learn about how the mindset and approaches of the school created a sustainable path for its arts integration program.
|
|
|
Did You Know...
that there is an arts cohort consisting of some of Wisconsin's major art education associations and agencies called the "Wisconsin Partners for Arts Education"? The goal of this group is to share information and resources, connect ideas and people, achieve shared goals, and advocate for the overall health of the arts in Wisconsin. Look for more information and resources coming soon.
|
NAMM Resource: Consider A Career in Music!
NAMM's Consider A Career in Music! resource offers a wealth of information designed to help explore, support, and promote career paths in music. Check it out here!
Don't miss the Consider A Career in Music! Toolkit, developed by The NAMM Foundation in partnership with the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the Teach Music Coalition, which features helpful materials highlighting the many career opportunities in the music industry.
|
The Impact of Culturally Responsive Repertoire on Students
Did you know? A 2016 study found that integrating culturally-responsive music not only improved students' connections to their own cultures but also improved teachers' ability to communicate the validity of each music style and performance practice without providing a definition of “correct”. It goes on to explain that what is culturally-reaffirming for one student may be isolating for another. By putting students, rather than repertoire, at the center of education, teachers can better engage students from diverse cultures. https://ow.ly/Szee50WEYmW
|
New AI in Music Education Resource
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the landscape of music and arts education and the ways in which we work, learn, communicate, create, and interact. To help music educators navigate this evolving terrain, NAfME has released Guiding Principles, Frameworks, and Applications for AI in Music Education (published July 29, 2025). This new resource was developed by NAfME’s AI Task Force during winter and spring 2025 through a collaborative discussion, research, and writing process. Read More Here
|
Is AI disrupting art?
As AI-generated art becomes more widespread, artists and technologists are debating its role in the creative process. Is AI disrupting traditional artmaking—or expanding it? And who gets credit for AI-generated work? Read More Here
|
The Law and The Arts
Art is wonderful and makes the world go round, and it can be easy to set aside the less whimsical aspects of art, AKA, the business and legal considerations of being an artist, and making art. The legal landscape for artists is multifaceted, and artists need to pay careful attention to legal developments, rules, and regulations to protect their rights, income, and reputation. Below, we've listed the most pertinent legal considerations artists should be aware of (credit to Musical Arts for pulling together a master list), along with relevant and Wisconsin specific legal resources. Read More Here
|
|
|
Adaptive Arts Sessions
You are invited to attend the free virtual "Adaptive Arts Sessions" hosted by Wisconsin Art Education Association Art in Special Education Chair, Sue Loesl, and Arts and Music Consultant, Julie Palkowski. Attend one or all. Register at - https://tinyurl.com/2s4cy523.
Join the 2025-26 Supporting Neurodiverse Students Learning Events
The Supporting Neurodiverse Students (SNS) Professional Learning System provides support for educators and families serving students with disability-related needs in the area of social and emotional learning (SEL). The SNS provides learning opportunities with a focus on regulation, social communication, flexibility, resilience, sensory processing, and executive functioning. This year we have the privilege of offering access to information in a variety of ways, so no matter how you learn, you can participate.
To find subjects, dates, and registration, please visit the SNS Learning Events Registration webpage.
|
Workshops and Conferences
-
Alliance for Wisconsin Theatre Education Conference – UW-Stevens Point, September 19, 2025
-
NDEO 2025 National Conference | National Dance Education Organization, Oct. 3-6, Detroit, MI
-
Wisconsin Dance Council Conference – East HS, Green Bay, October 11, 2025
-
Wisconsin Art Education Association Conference – Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee, October 23-24, 2025
-
Wisconsin State Music Conference – Monona Terrace, Madison, October 29-November 1, 2025
|
|
 "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom." - Viktor Frankl
|
|
|
Chris Gleason- Arts & Creativity Consultant
Teaching and Learning Team
201 West Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7841, Madison, WI 53707-7841
Phone (608) 264-9554
dpi.wi.gov/fine-arts
|
|
|
The DPI does not sponsor or endorse external resources or events. They are provided for your consideration only.
|
|
|
|
|
