Genius Hour

Date: September 13, 2023

Author: Alison Smith

Dear Esteemed Parents of Our 4th and 5th Grade Visionaries,

As we stride into this new school year, I am elated to share some exhilarating news that will undoubtedly spark a wave of enthusiasm in your talented young artists and musicians. Every Wednesday, our fine arts curriculum for your 4th and 5th graders will evolve into something truly extraordinary – an interdisciplinary journey that celebrates creativity, choice, and a profound transformation in the way we learn and grow.

Genius Hour: Cultivating Choice and Passion

Imagine a space where your child's creativity knows no bounds, a place where they can explore their deepest passions, and a time when their voice becomes the guiding force of their learning journey. This, dear parents, is the essence of Genius Hour.

Inspired by innovative educational models like the one I experienced at Hampshire College, a liberal arts college that transformed lives through its emphasis on student-driven learning, we have embraced the Genius Hour approach.

At Hampshire, I discovered the power of passionate, self-directed exploration. I was entrusted with the autonomy to craft my education, delve into my interests, and develop critical thinking skills that have shaped my career as an artist and educator. Hampshire College empowered me to become a self-directed, critical thinker, and I am thrilled to bring this spirit of autonomy and passion-driven learning to our fine arts classroom.

From Saskia Sassen to Boss Mentality: Empowering Critical Thinkers

Just as I was inspired by the groundbreaking work of scholars like Saskia Sassen, renowned for her research on global socio-economic forces and the consequences of "expulsions" in modern society, your child will have the opportunity to operate at school with a "Saskia Sassen boss mentality." In other words, they will embark on a journey of critical thinking, independent exploration, and self-directed learning.

Instead of following predetermined directions and rigid schedules, your child will now have the freedom to choose their artistic path. They will tackle questions, explore interests, and collaborate with peers, all under the guiding light of their passions. This approach not only fosters creativity but also instills a sense of ownership and agency in their education.

IB Values and the Pathway to Fine Arts Mastery

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) student myself, I understand the value of nurturing young minds to become well-rounded, principled, and inquisitive learners. The Genius Hour model aligns seamlessly with the IB values, particularly those found in the IB Learner Profile, which encourages students to be knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, and risk-takers.

For our young artists and musicians, Genius Hour is a stepping stone to becoming future IB students. It nurtures skills essential for the IB Fine Arts pathway, where students cultivate cultural capital and develop their own unique perspectives on the world. This, in turn, enriches their experience and prepares them to become informed, inquisitive, and responsible global citizens.

A World of Possibilities Awaits

In conclusion, I want to convey how excited I am about this transformative journey we are embarking on with your children. The Genius Hour approach, inspired by my own experiences at Hampshire College and grounded in the values of IB, empowers students to become creative thinkers, passionate learners, and future leaders.

I encourage you to engage in conversations with your child about their Genius Hour pursuits. Together, we can kindle the flames of curiosity and ignite a passion for lifelong learning. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you'd like to explore ways to support your child's Genius Hour endeavors.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's artistic and educational growth. Let's embark on this exciting journey together, where possibilities are limitless, and creativity knows no bounds.

Warm regards,

Alison Smith

Art Teacher

Eagle Art Program