April 2025
April 2025
Vol 36
Vol 36
Embedded Files
MAAE News Updates
MAAE News Updates
April 2025
Happy Spring! March's Music in our Schools, Youth Art Month, Theatre in our Schools and Dance in Schools throughout March found Missouri's arts educators celebrating the arts in communities across our state. This is in addition to their already full schedules of working to meet the needs of their students, families, colleagues and community. MAAE is so pleased to support and serve these valuable educators who give so much to help guide the next generation toward success.
We'll be celebrating that success in Jefferson City during Fine Arts Education Week - April 7-11, 2025. From student performances, exhibits and demonstrations, awards/recognition ceremonies, to our annual Celebration Summit Gala event and Show-Me Arts Summmit where students can sharpen their communication skills while learning about civics. Join us, either in person, or by reaching out to your state legislators from home. When you share your passion and help inform them of the value of an arts education for Missouri students, everyone wins!
HIGHLIGHTS AND UPDATES:
Congratulations to all of our MAAE 2025 Award Honorees, Contest Winners, and new Student Arts Ambassadors.
Dr. Melissa Cooper and Dr. Cynthia Williams Phelps attended the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principal's conference in early March.
I attended the State Board of Education Meeting (Mar. 4) and the MAC-hosted Poetry Out Loud Events (Mar. 6) and the wonderful Civics and Patriotism Workshop presented by Dr. Kendra Franks (DESE) and colleagues in Jefferson City where I was privileged to meet Mr. Bob Priddy and learned more about the history of Missouri through the famous Thomas Hart Benton mural in the House Speaker's office inside the MO Capitol building.
With MAAE's support we've made progress, and only need around $1,000 more for the Pianos for Uganda project's shipping costs. Donations are still welcome!
Signup to participate in MCA's Adopt-a-Legislator Program. The top tabs reflect each Missouri region.
Join the Alliance! We are stronger together. Choose your level of involvement from staying informed and/or answering calls to action (ally), to joining our efforts as an "active ally." Organizations can join too!
Special thanks to MAAE Staff and volunteers for all their efforts to bring MAAE programming to fulfillment and strengthen arts education in Missouri. Special shout out to our teams working on Fine Arts Education Week, Awards/Contest Selection, Show-Me Arts, Senate Student Arts Exhibit, Youth Art Month, and our Legislative Watch Team. You are all amazing!
HELP WANTED! We are looking for new team members to fill crucial roles for our MAAE programming. Please send a resume and letter describing your interests to director@moaae.org.
Hope to see you in Jefferson City during Fine Arts Education Week April 7-11, 2025!
Phyllis Pasley
Below: Phyllis Pasley with Bob Priddy with the mural by Thomas Hart Benton.
IN THIS ISSUE
Senate Student Fine Arts Exhibit 2025 Winners Announced
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Each Missouri Senator selects a single student work to represent their district for the coming year. Those students, their school and teacher's name, and the Senator who selected their work are listed below.
In 2024-25, more than 1,800 pieces of student artwork were collected. We are grateful to all of the student and teacher participants who submitted artwork for consideration.
Ember Walworth, Gr. 4, Sappington Elementary, Amy Ahmed, selected by Senator Doug Beck, SD01
Milo Nichols, Gr. 12, Francis Howell Central HS, Michelle McCune, selected by Senator Nick Schroer, SD02
Kaylynn Gilbert, Gr. 12, North County Senior HS, Cameron Queen, selected by Senator Mike Henderson , SD03
Kat Walker, Gr. 11, Clayton HS, Kami Chavarin, selected by Senator Karla May, SD04
Damya Davis, Gr. 8, Madison Therapeutic School, St. Louis Public Schools, Shawn Trent, selected by Senator Steve Roberts, SD05
Gage Tournear, Gr. 10, School of the Osage, Tiffany Caldwell, selected by Senator Mike Bernskoetter, SD06
Maria Reynoso, Gr. 12, East HS, Morgan Cravens, selected by Senator Patty Lewis , SD07
Aubree Cubley, Gr. 11, Summit Christian Academy, Jana Evans, selected by Senator Mike Cierpiot, SD08
Malachi Walker, Gr. 10, Paseo Academy of Fine & Performing Arts, Bonnye Brown, selected by Senator Barbara Ann Washington, SD09
Kali Moss, Gr. 11, Troy Buchanan HS, Abigail Byington, selected by Senator Travis Fitzwater, SD10
Sophia Barlag, Gr. 12, Independence Art And Technology School, Karen Campbell, selected by Senator Joe Nicola , SD11
Eve Townsend, Gr. 12, Lathrop HS, Jessica Petty, selected by Senator Rusty Black, SD12
Ka'Mina Peppers, Gr. 1, Lawson Elem., Denise Curtis, selected by Senator Angela Mosley, SD13
Lena Williams, Gr. 10, STEAM Academy at McCluer South Berkeley, Kelly Eggers, selected by Senator Brian Williams, SD14
Luke Hinton, Gr. 11, Lafayette HS, Lauren Sakowski, selected by Senator David Gregory , SD15
Nikki Rubino, Gr. 11, Lebanon HS, Elizabeth Barker, selected by Senator Justin Brown, SD16
Kali Sun, Gr. 12, Staley HS, Chelle Cox, selected by Senator Maggie Nurrenbern , SD17
Stormy Lewis, Gr. 12, Hannibal HS, James Zimmerman, selected by Senator Cindy O’Laughlin, SD18
Noah Huff, Gr. 12, Hickman HS, Traci Bolda, selected by Senator Stephen Webber , SD19
Katie Shields, Gr. 12, Lamar HS, Candy Hill, selected by Senator Curtis Trent, SD20
Harlei Kammerich, Gr. 12, Pilot Grove HS, Macie Edwards, selected by Senator Kurtis Gregory , SD21
Macey Crostic, Gr. 4, House Springs Elem., Michelle Howard, selected by Senator Mary Elizabeth Coleman, SD22
Nathan Unger, Gr. 4, Francis Howell Fairmount Elem., Dr. Heidi Styrk, selected by Senator Adam Schnelting , SD23
Dawson Braden, Gr. 12, Ladue HS, Christine Warner, selected by Senator Tracy McCreery, SD24
Ellie Furlow, Gr. 11, Kennett HS, Joni Boone, selected by Senator Jason Bean, SD25
Ella Heisel, Gr. 12, Eureka HS, Kristina Welch, selected by Senator Ben Brown, SD26
Jaedyn Hethcote, Gr. 12, Cape Girardeau Central HS, Jon Daniels, selected by Senator Jamie Burger , SD27
Madalyn Fox, Gr. 9, Smith Cotton HS, Rachel Ramirez, selected by Senator Sandy Crawford, SD28
Ashton Watson, Gr. 6, Inman Intermediate, Brooke Rowe, selected by Senator Mike Moon, SD29
Mia Whitney, Gr. 11, Glendale HS, Jessica Blackburn, selected by Senator Lincoln Hough, SD30
Adalyn Stevick, Gr. 8, Raymore Peculiar South Middle School, Rachel McClain, selected by Senator Rick Brattin, SD31
Bow Smith, Gr. 8, Carl Junction Jr. HS, Whitney Bucher, selected by Senator Jill Carter, SD32
Lyla Wood, Gr. 4, Willow Springs Elem., Tiffany Green, selected by Senator Brad Hudson , SD33
Andrea Garcia, Gr. 12, Park Hill South HS, Heather Sulzen, selected by Senator Tony Luetkemeyer, SD34
Professional Learning
Professional Learning
“April is a reminder that something better is always around the corner.” --Unknown
April is also the month for Fine Arts Education Week at the Capitol. We are excited about the opportunity to promote, support, and advocate for fine arts education in Missouri!
I will be attending the MAEA (Missouri Arts Education Association) Spring Conference in Columbia, MO as a presenter and exhibitor. My presentation is titled “5 Ideas for Building Partnerships through Effective, Reflective Teaching”. In this session, participants will make professional connections to their own reflective teaching practices, examine personal teaching philosophies, and explore partnership building practices. Topics will include 1) Know your narrative, 2) Explore your beliefs about visual art teaching, 3) View teaching through a reflective lens, 4) Create a system for self-assessment and reflection, and 5) Engage in reflective dialogue with colleagues and professional communities. By becoming reflective art educators, teachers move from asking “Am I doing this right?” to “This is the right thing to do.”
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In March, Director of Policy, Melissa Cooper, and I attended the MAESP conference (Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals) in Osage Beach. We had the opportunity to attend the arts integrated workshop “Unlocking Creativity: Arts Integration as a Pathway to Whole-School Success" presented by arts integration instructional mentor Cayla Barnes and principal Julia Coggins from Locust Street Expressive Arts Elementary, Columbia Missouri. We also engaged in meaningful conversations with elementary school principals from across the state.
If you haven’t attended one of our webinars, this is the perfect time for you to join our professional learning community! Each month, we offer free, live streaming, and collaborative Professional Development workshops through our IDEA and MAIN professional learning networks. You can earn a PD certificate, as well as Graduate Credit through Lindenwood University for attending our workshops!
I hope you find April full of new ARTful adventures and as always, let me know how I can help you curate your next professional learning experience!
In Case You Missed This!
Inclusive Resources for Inclusive Classrooms with Dr. Sarah Gulish and Franklin Willis
How do we build inclusive classrooms not only in our instructional practice, but through the resources we use with students? In this session, Dr. Sarah Gulish and Franklin Willis break down their work in curating and creating resources at F-flat Books that benefit all learners and center the voices of culture-bearers in music education. Franklin shares how he uses his experiences as both an author and educator to connect with teachers and students around the globe.
MAAE at the 2025 Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals conference!
MAAE at the 2025 Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals conference!
Register Now for TAB 2025
Register Now for TAB 2025
Now's the time to register for TAB St. Louis! June 4-5 2025 at Meramec Elementary in Clayton. Join us to explore Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB) pedagogy and choice-based teaching. Gain practical tools, connect with resources, and engage in a supportive community! Graduate Credit Available. If you have questions, contact StlTabChoice@gmail.com
Learn More and Register Here
MAAE's FREE Professional Learning Networks
Join other educators in conversation and collaboration. All professional learning groups are live streaming, interactive, and free. Our webinars provide educators with learning and growth opportunities to support your professional journey. Professional Development certificates are available for each session.
Earn a PD certificate, as well as Graduate Credit!
Free, live streaming, and collaborative Professional Development workshops each month through our IDEA and MAIN professional learning networks. You can earn a PD certificate, as well as Graduate Credit through Lindenwood University for attending our workshops!
Why Arts Integration? Supporting Preservice Teachers
April 7 | 5:30pm
Live via Zoom
Free
Join us as we continue our exploration of Why Arts Integration? In this session we will hear from preservice theachers!
Looking for new ACE Program School Partners for 2025-2026 School Year!
What is an Arts Centered approach to instruction?
We at MAAE believe that, arts centered education draws on the natural human inclination towards artistic expression to increase engagement and provide alternative access points to academic content. Art integration's multi-modality approach promotes creativity, imagination, innovation, social-emotional learning, and critical thinking, leading to a better understanding of academic content.
The Missouri Alliance Arts Centered Education (ACE) promotes and supports an arts across the curriculum approach to teaching and learning in Missouri's schools. This program enables schools to receive customized onsite professional development at no cost to the school.
ACE provides customized, onsite professional learning in arts integration at no cost to the school.
If you think your school may be interested in participating in MAAE's ACE program, please email ace@moaae.org
IDEA Network
IDEA Network
Professional learning of inclusion, diversity and equity in the arts.
Interested in learning more? email cynthia.phelps@moaae.org
The Art of Transformation: Harnessing Music and Theater for Social Justice and Education
May 5 | 5:30pm
Live via Zoom
Free
Join Dr. Philip A. Woodmore as he delves into the transformative power of music and theater in addressing social justice, fostering community dialogue, and inspiring change. Drawing from his groundbreaking projects—Antigone in Ferguson, The Drum Major Instinct, and the upcoming Team M—as well as the innovative Theater of War model, this presentation highlights how art becomes activism. Discover practical strategies for integrating these ideas into K-12 classrooms, especially in the post-pandemic era, to build resilience, empathy, and connection among students.
PD Certificate and Grad Credit Available
Upcoming MAAE Events
Upcoming MAAE Events
Arts Ed Leaders Convening
Next Session
Virtual Session
April 22, 2025 2-3 p.m.
RSVP at kendra.franks@dese.mo.gov if you plan to attend!
Help us identify arts ed leaders across our state who might benefit from professional learning support. Contact Dr. Cynthia Williams Phelps at cynthia.phelps@moaae.org and we'll get them connected to this group.
Learn more now!
Mark your calendar and plan to participate in our initiatives which promote arts education like Fine Arts Education Day (4.9.25), the Show-Me Arts Summit (4.8.25) the Senate Exhibit, and MAAE Awards and contests. With your participation, these initiatives help policy makers understand the power and value of a well-rounded education which includes the arts. Both in-person and remote involvement is possible.
Visit the Fine Arts Education Week page to keep up to date on events!
Don't Let Student Artists and Performers Go Hungry!
Your support is needed to help ensure student artists and performers at this year's Fine Arts Education Day can receive a free lunch. Make a donation today here.
Grant Support for Fine Arts teachers, trips, supplies, more!
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Several Granting organizations make funds available which might support teachers in their professional learning journey, and to meet program goals.
Connect the Arts - a web-based portal for artists wishing to post their own profile and portfolio of work, for job opportunities for artists, and a listing of grant opportunities which might be a match for your program needs.
Missouri Arts Council School Grants - funding support for artists in residence, express grants, Touring performers and "Big Yellow School Bus" transportation grants.
Missouri State Parks Bus Grant Program - transportation funding support for school groups to travel to Missouri State Parks.
Royal Talens (visual arts supply vendor) sponsors a Cultural Equity Grant (up to $500) to provide support for studio art educators of color residing in the US or Canada to attend the regional and national educational conferences.
TLC Scholarship grants up to $250 for special projects.
Missouri Art Education Association MAEA Membership Grant, Emerging Leaders Grant, Conference Attendance Grant, and Project Grant.
New Teacher/Mentor Help Available
Reach out to us for resources to help new fine arts teachers thrive!
Contact director@moaae.org or complete this short survey and we will help get new teachers connected with an experienced mentor in their specific arts discipline.
Funding
Funding
We need your help! Donate Now!
As a non-profit, the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE) works tirelessly to promote and support high-quality arts education in Missouri schools. MAAE relies heavily on the support of donors like you to continue this critical work. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a significant difference in enhancing the quality and accessibility of arts education statewide.Make a donation, and help us create a brighter future for our young learners.
Thank you in advance for your support and for being an advocate of the arts and education.We are also grateful to those who have made in-kind donations to the Alliance. View the list of in-kind donors here.
As a non-profit, the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE) works tirelessly to promote and support high-quality arts education in Missouri schools. MAAE relies heavily on the support of donors like you to continue this critical work. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a significant difference in enhancing the quality and accessibility of arts education statewide.Make a donation, and help us create a brighter future for our young learners.
Thank you in advance for your support and for being an advocate of the arts and education.We are also grateful to those who have made in-kind donations to the Alliance. View the list of in-kind donors here.
Make a donation! Make a Difference!
Missourians Unite to share the Gift of Music with students in Uganda
Father Thomas Sserwadda of St. Louis University has partnered with MAAE, Jackson Pianos, Creative City, KC, and UNESCO to bring the 20 donated and refurbished pianos to Bukalasa Seminary in Uganda. The $25,000 in shipping costs is the final barrier to helping to bring the joys and benefits of a music education to over 200 students. Please make a donation today! Learn more and donate here!
Arts Advocacy
Arts Advocacy
MAAE's Arts Advocacy Efforts
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MAAE engages in arts advocacy by providing information and support for local level advocacy, maintaining communication with our colleagues engaged in national level work, and with a variety of arts advocacy work at the state level. From raising visibility, to gathering information and training, much of our work in arts advocacy is at the state level. This includes our signature advocacy programs: Fine Arts Education Day, Senate Student Arts Exhibit, and the Show-Me Arts Summit. Other activities include reporting to our allies about the activities of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the State Board of Education, pending legislation, and changes to administrative rules. We work with our allied organizations such as Missouri Citizens for the Arts, Missouri School Boards Association, and associations which support teachers, (MSTA, MNEA) school administrators, (MASA) principals (MAESP, MoASSP) and more to ensure arts education thrives in Missouri.
View MAAE's 2024-2025 Advocacy Agenda
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The Executive Committee and Board of the Missouri Alliance for Arts Education creates an annual advocacy agenda directed toward the State Board of Education and the Missouri General Assembly.
In general, we encourage each of these entities to enact policies that support high quality arts education in Missouri.
Americans for the Arts has created a new resource hub on their website to support Threats to Artistic Freedom. Find updates on activity across the United States related to advocacy in this area.
You can also endorse MAAE's Artistic Freedom Statement.
Arts Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Arts Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Juried Exhibition for Secondary Art Students
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The Department of Art & Design, the Judith Enyeart Reynolds College of Arts and Letters, and the Board of Governors of Missouri State University will host a virtual Juried Exhibition for secondary art students again this year. The virtual exhibition will showcase artworks from talented students and give them an opportunity to participate in a competitive, juried summer exhibition, and provide a platform for their work to be displayed in a college venue. Please note as this is a juried show, entries are not guaranteed acceptance.
Exhibition format:
+ All aspects of the jurying process and exhibition are virtual! Images are submitted online.
+ Instructions for uploading images are on the prospectus (link below).
Eligibility:
+ All currently enrolled high school students.
Submission Requirements:
+ Each student may submit up to 3 works (1 detail image per piece if needed).
+ Students should submit works from the previous or current school year.
+ There are no fees associated with submission.
Winning entries will receive award certificates and scholarships that can be applied towards tuition at Missouri State University Art & Design:
1st–$5,000.00
2nd–$3,000.00
3rd–$1,500.00.
Entry Deadline: October 24, 2025 (entry portal opens October 1)
Notification of Acceptance: December 12, 2025
Virtual Summer Exhibition Opens: June 2, 2026
Learn more here.
Missouri Arts Council Updates
Missouri Arts Council Updates
Featured Artist Series
The Missouri Arts Council features Missouri Artists on their website each month. Selected artists of all disciplines — four each month from around the state —receive a $300 stipend. Learn more and apply here.
Congratulations to all of the featured artists:
Applications are always open for artists living in Missouri. Artists are paid a stipend in cooperation with Mid-America Arts Alliance.
Bring A+ Schools to Missouri
Jenni Ryan, Arts Education Program Specialist
Bring A+ Schools to Missouri
Jenni Ryan, Arts Education Program Specialist
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Tap to Read
Since January, I have been working alongside Oklahoma A+ Schools Institute to bring A+ Schools to Missouri. This model for whole-school transformation begins with the arts as the key component of an eight-pillar framework known as the A+ Essentials. See chart below!
What I have learned:
A+ Schools professional learning requires a full commitment from each faculty member and leadership. The pd is intense and rewarding. Guided by expert teachers and teaching artists, a summer summit leads a group of educators through lessons and activities to master the eight Essentials, to apply them to their school community, and to develop lessons for their classrooms that honor this framework.
During a training week [Summer Summit] with Oklahoma A+ Schools, I witnessed many aha! moments, collaborations, and lessons planned.
So what now?
Missouri Arts Council believes in the strength of this model. We will provide the funding to implement A+ Schools, which translates into $90,000 of professional learning over three years for each school that makes this commitment.
Talk to me if you are curious about this model. A+ Schools are thriving in North Carolina, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas, and pilot programs are underway in Colorado and Texas. Since 1995, A+ Schools have reported higher achievement, attendance, and satisfaction (student and teacher).
AND
Below check out the A+ Fellows Info Sheet to learn about becoming an A+ Fellow: we are searching for expert MO teachers and teaching artists. This opportunity begins with high quality professional learning and leads to a part-time position (an excellent summer job!) Apply now! A+ Schools Missouri Apprentice Fellows Application
Listen to the podcast episode with Missouri State Teachers Association: Episode 36: Missouri Arts council and the A+ Schools Network | MSTA Presents (podbean.com)
--Jenni Ryan, Arts Education Program Specialist
Missouri Arts Council
Jenni.ryan@ltgov.mo.gov
314.340.6857
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Updates
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Updates
From the DESE Desk: Happenings and Updates
Kendra Franks, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
From the DESE Desk: Happenings and Updates
Kendra Franks, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
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Tap to Read
Directors of Fine Arts Meeting – Next meeting is in April.
DATA PROJECT - K – 12 data for fine arts in MO is here! Please check it out!! MO Arts Ed Dashboards
Also share your excitement of it being here at this email fineartsdata@dese.mo.gov
Your comments may help this endeavor to be able to continue!!Renovation at the Jefferson Building – My office on the 5th floor of the Jefferson Building at 205 Jefferson St. in downtown Jefferson City has been moved to the 11th floor. Some major and long-time awaited renovations are occurring. The DESE art exhibit has moved as well. If you would like to view the artwork, or if you’d like to visit with me in Jeff City, please email to schedule a time Kendra.franks@dese.mo.gov
The next and final FAM mtg is Thursday, April 17th. There will not be one in March, because I’ll be attending the NAEA conference in Louisville.
National Arts Standards Survey Now Open
National Arts Standards Survey Now Open
For the first time since 2014, the National Coalition for Arts Standards (NCAS) is reviewing the National Arts Standards —and they need YOUR voice!
Whether you teach dance, direct theatre, create media arts, make music, or inspire visual artists, your experience matters.
Help shape how we teach arts in America by taking the NCAS survey public input survey by May 16, 2025.
Together, we’re building the future of arts education!
Teacher Shortage Report
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Teacher Shortage Report
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Each year DESE publishes a Teacher Shortage Report. The department prepares this report in compliance with U.S. Department of Education requirements. The results of the study help to determine eligibility to receive some financial aid, including TEACH grants. This year’s report has been approved by the USDOE and is now available here:https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/2024-approved-teacher-shortage-report.
Nominate an Educator for Missouri Teacher of the Year
Nominations are due by April 14, 2025
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Nominate an Educator for Missouri Teacher of the Year
Nominations are due by April 14, 2025
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Nominations are now being accepted for Regional Teacher of the Year, the first step in the process to become next year’s Missouri Teacher of the Year. Nominations are due by April 14, 2025, and are anonymous unless otherwise requested. Nominations can be made through the online Teacher of the Year nomination form here
“The act of telling people how much their work is noticed and appreciated can have a tremendous impact,” said Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger. “As we come together to address teacher recruitment and retention challenges across the state, we cannot forget about the importance of valuing and respecting the teaching profession.”
More than 30 Regional Teachers of the Year are selected to represent each one of the nine Regional Professional Development Centers (RPDCs) throughout the state as well as the Southwest Center for Educational Excellence. Anyone can nominate an educator for the Teacher of the Year award, even if the educator is not a school district’s teacher of the year program winner.
“People in public education rarely receive the recognition, attention, or applause they deserve for the things they do, and being nominated means that someone noticed all of the things that teachers do that too often go unappreciated,” said 2024 Missouri Teacher of the Year, Greg Kester. “Being nominated for Missouri Teacher of the Year reflects how people feel and think about a teacher and is truly an honor. I will always be thankful for those who nominated me, and I will never be able to express my gratitude adequately to them.”
“Being nominated for Missouri Teacher of the Year gave me the opportunity to reflect upon why I teach, how I teach, and how I can continually strive to best serve my students and colleagues,” said 2025 Missouri Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Jones. “I was and continue to be humbled to represent and work with thousands of caring, dedicated Missouri educators.”
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will announce the Regional Teacher of the Year winners later this summer. The Missouri Teacher of the Year will be named in September.
DESE Virtual Gallery
Featuring: Mt. Vernon School District
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DESE Virtual Gallery
Featuring: Mt. Vernon School District
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Visit DESE’s Virtual Art Gallery here, which features creations this month from Mt. Vernon School District. For more information about how your school can participate in the art exhibit, please contact Dr. Kendra Franks, DESE’s Fine Arts Curriculum Director at Kendra.Franks@dese.mo.gov.
Artwork is on display in the Jefferson Building 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. on Monday-Friday (except for state holidays). Please contact Kendra Franks, Arts Education Director before visiting.
Started in 2004, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has invited public schools throughout Missouri to submit samples of their students' artwork. The art is displayed in the Department's main office in Jefferson City and in the room where the State Board of Education holds its regular monthly meetings. Artwork from each featured school is showcased for a month. The same artwork is now featured here. For privacy reasons, the full names of the student artists will not be published here.
Schools that will be featured in the Virtual Art Gallery are already scheduled for several months in advance. Please do not submit unsolicited artwork. For more information, contact:
Kendra Franks, Ph.D.
Director of Fine Arts Education
573-751-9610
Kendra.Franks@dese.mo.gov
Image Credit: Anna - Mt. Vernon
Job Postings
View April Job Postings from Across Missouri
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City of St. Peters - Art and Theatre Camps
Art Camp Counselor - Are you passionate about art and enjoy working with kids? We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team as Art Camp Counselors for the summer season, from June 2nd to August 1st. This role offers up to 32.5 hours per week, with a total of 400 hours for the season, and a flexible schedule based on staffing needs. If you love inspiring young artists in a fun and creative setting, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Theatre Specialist - Are you passionate about theatre and eager to share your expertise with aspiring young performers? We are seeking a Theatre Specialist to lead engaging and dynamic theatre programs. This role is responsible for the programming, supervision, coordination, and administrative functions of a theatre-focused instructional camp. If you have a strong background in theatrical arts and enjoy fostering creativity, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Grain Valley Schools Speech & Debate Teacher
Grain Valley Schools is seeking a qualified, energetic, and passionate High School Speech & Debate teacher for the 2025-26 school year. Qualified candidates must possess an appropriate bachelor’s degree and certification from the state of Missouri. Sponsorship and coaching opportunities are available. Preferences will be given to those candidates with additional certifications, such as Secondary English or Art.
DaySpring Arts & Education
Music Director - The Music Director is responsible for the overall musical integrity of the production from first rehearsal to final curtain. They ensure that the music and vocal parts support the overall vision for a production, creating the highest quality musical experience possible,while ensuring that the success and growth of the class is the priority. The MD supports the individual actors as they create their characters, assisting them with pitch, rhythm etc to help them achieve their best version of the character, regardless of their skill level. The Music Director attends auditions, all rehearsals, tech, and performances.
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
Applications for the 2025–2026 Resident Teaching Artists cohort will open on March 10, 2025.
Opera Theatre St. Louis
Apprentice Assistant Stage Director
Artistic Director
2025 Company Scheduler
Box Office Representative
Spring/Summer 2025 Administrative Internship Program
Build Crew Positions
Run Crew Positions
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Orchestra Operations Manager
Youth Orchestra Manager
Assistant Orchestra Personnel Manager
Missouri Educator Job Board
DESE is pleased to introduce the first-ever Missouri Educator Job Board. Through Missouri’s participation in a pilot project funded by the U.S. Department of Education, the Educator Job Board is available at no cost to every teacher candidate and Missouri school district and charter school.
An interested candidate looking for a teaching job may search by type of teaching position, by location of school, and even by type of school anywhere in the state. The Missouri Educator Job Board aims to connect interested teacher candidates to schools with vacant positions more directly, more quickly, and more easily.
Interested stakeholders may review the Missouri Educator Job Board here. There is also a 5-minute video available to review that introduces the Job Board and walks through its features.
Join the MAAE Team Today! Check out our Current Job Openings!
Know of other jobs? Please share! communication@moaae.org
Regional News
Regional News
MAAE is introducing a new section of our monthly newsletter devoted to breaking down news, resources, and events by region! The goal is to help our readers better utilize the fine arts and fine arts education resources closest to them.
This section is broken down into six areas:
Kansas City and Northwest
Springfield and Southwest
Central Missouri
St. Louis Area
Hannibal and Northeast
Cape Girardeau and Southeast
Regional Arts Education Networks
Regional Arts Education Networks
Strengthening regional connections increases access to resources, opportunities for professional learning and collaboration, and strengthens arts education within the region. Visit MAAE's new Regional Arts Education Networks page now.
Missouri Arts Education Organizations Spring 2025 Professional Learning Conferences
Connecting arts educators in leadership and learning
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MAAE helps support exceptional professional learning opportunities sponsored by statewide arts education organizations thanks to individual and organizational contributors and funding from the Missouri Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Francis Family Foundation.
MAAE's Fine Arts Education Week April 7 - 11, 2025
Missouri Art Education Association April 10 - 12, 2025
Missouri Association of School Librarians April 13 - 15, 2025
News and Resources from our Allies
News and Resources from our Allies
Artist Emergency Grants for Medical and Disaster
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Disaster Recovery Resources for Artists and Arts Organizations from the MidAmerica Arts Alliance.
Learn More Here
The Craft Emergency Relief Fund - Serving craft artists through emergency relief, preparedness, education + advocacy. For 40 years, the Craft Emergency Relief Fund has provided emergency relief for craft artists. Building educational resources to empower craft artists to prepare for, navigate and thrive in the wake of emergencies and disasters, CERF+ remains a dedicated partner and advocate for craft artists and the craft community.
The Rauschnberg Medical Emergency Grants program provides one-time grants of up to $5,000 for recent unexpected medical, dental, and mental health emergencies to artists in financial need* who are creating in the visual arts, film/video/electronic/digital arts, and choreography.
Learn More Here
The Rauschenberg Dancer Emergency Grants program provides one-time grants of up to $3,000 to professional dancers facing dire financial emergencies, due to the loss or lack of recent/current live performance work, because of circumstances outside of their control.
Learn More Here
Show Me Art Coloring Book On Sale Now
Missouri Art Education Association's Show Me Art Coloring Book: On the Move in Missouri: 5th Edition is now on sale. Congratulations to the 84 visual art students who are now published artists. Purchase your coloring books today on Amazon for $13.99, and 100% of the proceeds will go to the MAEA Future Art Teacher High School Scholarship fund. This year's coloring book is themed around outdoor activities, "Missouri on the Move." Art students design a coloring page based on their favorite outdoor activities, such as cycling, fishing, camping, sports, etc.
Purchase your copy here!
Made-in-Missouri Films Spent More Than $33 Million in 2024
Missouri’s newly reinstated motion picture tax credit is paying off. The 39 productions that qualified for the incentives spent more than $33.5 million and employed 1,437 Missouri residents while filming here last year. As reported by the Missouri Film Office, the productions included 15 narrative feature films, four documentary features, two narrative shorts, two documentary shorts, nine unscripted TV series, one scripted TV series pilot, one animated TV series, four commercials, and one web series.
GAM Virtual Speaker Series
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Monday, April 14--Supporting Gifted Kids in a General Education Classroom with Jennifer Hawkins (GAM Executive Secretary)
As gifted educators, it’s important that we make sure our students continue to learn when they go back to their general education classrooms. Learn ways to differentiate curriculum using interventions and extensions for “Those Who Already Know It.“ Register HERE
Torrance Festival of Ideas: Creativity & Health
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The 2025 Torrance Festival of Ideas will focus on the theme of CREATIVITY & HEALTH. This global online two-day festival (April 21-22) features presentations from world-renowned scholars on their pioneering ideas on the intersections between creativity and mental health, physical health, community health, and medicine.
Registration is FREE but seats are limited!
Register at the Festival Website: https://tinyurl.com/torranceideasfest2025
Apply for MSU's Online MAE Program
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Missouri State University’s MAE program has a rolling admission cycle and a graduate certificate option coming soon.
This program is 100% online and is designed for practicing art teachers who can choose a studio emphasis or a written thesis track.
MSU is one of the most affordable graduate educations available. Finishing just 18 credit hours qualifies you to teach dual credit and other college courses.
Note: The MAE does not include coursework for teaching certification.
Artist INC – April and June In Person Sessions
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Artist INC Express Springfield, MO (in-person) Spring
Saturday, April 12, 2025, 12:00 to 5:00 pm
Sunday, April 13, 2025, 12:00 to 5:00 pm
Registration Deadline: Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 5:00 pm
Registration Cap: 40 (expect 70% attendance)
Registrations to Date: 5
Event Registration Link: https://www.maaa.org/event/artist-inc-express-springfield-mo-in-person/
AIX Marketing Information Sheet (in-person)- Apr. 12-13, 2025
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Artist INC Express Cape Girardeau, MO (in-person)
Saturday, June 7, 2025 from noon to 5:00 pm
Sunday, June 8, 2025 from noon to 5:00 pm
Registration Deadline: Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 5:00 pm
Registration Cap: 40 (expect 70% attendance–25)
Registrations to Date: 0
Event Registration Link: https://www.maaa.org/event/artist-inc-express-cape-girardeau-mo-in-person/
AIX Marketing Information Sheet (in-person)
MAEA Spring Conference April 10-12
Learn more and register here.
In Spring 2025 the MAEA Conference is April 10-12th in Columbia, Missouri. We are excited to invite Keynote Speakers, Karen E. Griffin and Dr. RitaDoris Ubah to present as well as a series of local artists in our guest artist spotlight. Learn from teachers on the topic of community connections. We will explore art integration schools with Missouri Arts Council, community murals with Columbia Public Schools and Art Club ideas within our Division Meetings. Get excited to pair with new and old vendors from DrawLucy and DoRadThings to Blick and Amaco. We are proud to announce that we will be visiting a ton of locations around Columbia including. As always we will have a silent auction of great items for your classroom and a presentation of student and member artwork.
Fall 2025 Conference Dates Set
MAEA Fall 2025 will be Oct 3-4th at Camp Bob White in Knob Noster, MO for the 43rd annual year. This signature MAEA event includes TONS of hands-on art making with colleagues as well as time to practice new techniques like weaving, tye dye, glass slumping, t-shirt printing, raku pottery, found object art, nature-based art and more! It's the ultimate camp experience for art teachers.
MAEA Spring Conference 2026 at the Cape!
Learn more and register here.
This just in! MAEA Spring Conference 2026 will be in Cape Girardeau, MO for the first time! Mark your calendars for March 26th-28th, 2026. We are currently collecting team
Do you love Dance? Let's connect!
For those who wish to maintain a statewide dance advocacy presence, share knowledge and help unify Missouri's dance community please get connected at dance@moaae.org.
Tap to view list of Statewide Arts Ed Orgs
Tap to view list of Statewide Arts Ed Orgs
The Missouri Alliance for Arts Education encourages you to join our statewide arts education organizations. Uniting with others strengthens our collective voice in advocacy, and ensures that students throughout the state have ever-improving, high quality teachers. These teachers gain tools to help cultivate each student's ability to express themselves through the arts. Joining the organizations and attending their conferences is a cost-effective and comprehensive way for teachers to receive content-specific professional learning. The leadership of each group passionately cares of Missouri teachers and wants to provide them the tools they need to help their students succeed. Join today!
Missouri Music Educators Association (MMEA)
Missouri State Thespians (MoThespians)
Follow MAAE across social media where we post about all things art education to help Missourians connect, celebrate, and advocate for arts education.
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