Jane's Story
I had been a devoted user and follower of Theatrefolk, so when I heard about the DTA, I was IN! It became my saving grace, my connection to other theatre teachers, and really my imaginary colleague. Because the lesson plans are so thoughtfully and thoroughly crafted, I am able to create clear scope and sequence in my curriculum mapping. That focus allows me to teach with more joy and freedom because I have a solid foundation beneath me.
What led you to becoming a drama teacher?
It was 1999. I had started my own 99-seat theatre company in Los Angeles and met the two teachers who created the AVPA (Academy of Visual and Performing Arts) at Culver City High School. We were all applying for city grant money and we got to talking. I invited them to bring their students to our show and, after seeing our show, they invited me to conduct some Percussion in Theatre workshops for their students. That experience with those young women was transformative. I wanted more. I then directed a production of Waiting for Godot at the AVPA which was incredibly gratifying and glorious (I know...Godot with high school kids? But it worked!). I loved the enthusiasm and willingness of these students and found it so exciting. I started teaching full-time at an independent school in the Fall of 2002. Still going strong as I enter my 21st year as a theatre teacher.
What brought you to the Drama Teacher Academy Community?
I think I joined as soon as it was created! I had been a devoted user and follower of Theatrefolk, so when I heard about the DTA, I was IN! And then it became my saving grace, my connection to other theatre teachers, and really my imaginary colleague. When you teach theatre at this level, you're usually the only one, so there's often no one with whom you can brainstorm, problem solve or celebrate. DTA became that for me. My partner knows all the names of the top contributors. My department chair hears me invoking the DTA on a regular basis. I can't imagine NOT having this community!
What do you use most in the DTA? How has it helped you?
I use the various lesson plans to flesh out and inspire my curriculum. It's incredible. This year alone, the various Playwriting materials allowed me to structure a meaningful, successful unit for my advanced students. The Greek Theatre and the Theatre of the Absurd, 30 Second monologues, the Empathy Project, Ensemble work - so many lessons! I also am a big fan of the Facebook group for not only being a wealth of information and support, but for being so lovely and collegial. It's a gorgeous place to spend time. Check out the webinars and the professional development opportunities - so good!
What kinds of success have you seen in the classroom using DTA material?
Because the lesson plans are so thoughtfully and thoroughly crafted, I am able to create clear scope and sequence in my curriculum mapping. That focus allows me to teach with more joy and freedom because I have a solid foundation beneath me. There are some incredible, innovative, devoted folks in the DTA and their dedication and inspiration during the pandemic allowed me to rock the Zoom teaching. It was incredible! DTA material increases my confidence and allows for strong engagement from my students.
What would you say to other teachers thinking about joining the DTA?
DO IT! You will be amazed at the depth of the material available to you! You will revel in a community of kind, talented, dedicated folks. You will have the community that theatre always had for you when you first discovered its power. Being a theatre educator can be solitary, but not when the DTA is right there inside that laptop or tablet waiting to help and support!
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