
Professional Development For Teaching Artists
Developing and Deepening the Talents of Teaching Artists Internationally
Focus 5 provides training for teaching artists focused on arts integration, residency planning, lesson design, professional development workshops, and classroom management. The trainings combine self-paced online learning modules with live virtual Zoom sessions. Optional one-to-one consulting and in-person sessions are also available. The modules are designed as a sequence where each training builds on the content taught in the previous module.

Arts Integration

Arts Integration: The What and Why for Teaching Artists
Designed specifically for teaching artists, this workshop explores arts integration through their unique lens. It examines the definition of arts integration, foundational principles of how students learn, and the ways in which its philosophy and practice are supported by current learning theories. Participants will gain insights into how teaching artists can effectively apply arts integration strategies to foster deeper student engagement and understanding.
Teaching Students

Planning Residencies for Students
This session guides teaching artists through a five-step process to design impactful student residencies. Participants will: define residency goals and structure, develop a central topic, establish clear learning outcomes, outline engaging classroom sessions, and craft a compelling description and title. The process ensures residencies align with curriculum standards while fostering creativity and student engagement. By the end, teaching artists will have a structured plan to deliver meaningful, well-organized residencies that support both artistic and academic growth. Perfect for those looking to refine or develop new residency programs with a strong educational foundation.

Designing Lessons for Classroom Instruction
This session equips teaching artists with essential strategies for designing impactful learning experiences. Participants explore a structured framework that includes setting clear objectives, sequencing instruction effectively, and incorporating engaging learning activities. The session focuses on aligning lessons with curriculum standards while fostering creativity and engagement. Teaching artists will analyze a model lesson, apply best practices, and refine their own instructional approaches. By the end, they will have a well-structured lesson plan that enhances learning and artistic exploration, ensuring their teaching is purposeful, engaging, and educationally sound.

Examining Classroom Management from a Teaching Artist’s Perspective
This session provides teaching artists with practical strategies to create a positive, engaging, and well-structured learning environment. Participants explore proactive techniques for managing student behavior, setting clear expectations, and establishing effective routines. The session emphasizes strategies that support creative exploration while maintaining focus and participation. Teaching artists will analyze real-world scenarios, develop tools for guiding student interactions, and refine their classroom presence. By the end, participants will be equipped with strategies to foster a supportive, respectful, and productive learning atmosphere, ensuring their lessons run smoothly and students stay engaged in meaningful artistic experiences.
Teaching Teachers

Developing Professional Development Workshops for Teachers
This session helps teaching artists design and deliver engaging, high-impact professional development workshops for educators. Participants will learn how to structure workshops that are interactive, relevant, and aligned with teacher needs. The session covers essential strategies for planning content, pacing instruction, and facilitating active participation. Teaching artists will explore techniques to build teacher engagement, communicate key concepts effectively, and adapt to diverse learning styles. By the end, participants will have a well-structured workshop plan and the confidence to lead dynamic, meaningful professional learning experiences that empower educators to integrate the arts into their teaching practices.

Teaching Artists as Instructional Coaches for Teachers
This session equips teaching artists with the skills to support educators through one-on-one coaching in arts-integrated instruction. Participants will explore effective coaching strategies, including active listening, constructive feedback, and guiding reflective practice. The session emphasizes building strong teacher relationships, identifying instructional goals, and modeling arts-based teaching strategies. Teaching artists will learn how to tailor their coaching approach to different educators’ needs, fostering confidence and skill development. By the end, participants will be prepared to serve as collaborative partners, helping teachers deepen their arts integration practices and enhance student learning through ongoing support and mentorship.