NBS Fall Conference-
Details Here
September 14 & 15
Hamline University, St. Paul, MN
From the Chair
by Corey Shelsta, NBS Section Chairperson
Last year, about this time, I was talking about sending my son off to his first year of college. This year, I find myself thinking about the whole back-to-school process. There are three of us in my house heading back to school this year, in one way or another.
My son brought home all the clothing we sent with him last year that he didn't end up wearing. He tells us he’s not taking it back with him. My daughter has already claimed a couple of his sweatshirts. He’s starting his second year of a theatre design/production BFA, so we are going over lists of things he needs for some design, drafting and rendering classes. I am guessing many of our student members are looking over similar lists as you get ready to head back.
I don’t see a lot of my daughter these weeks before school. Between marching band practice and tennis practice her days are pretty full. Since this is her first year of high school, this is also my first time as a “band parent”. It seems there is a lot to do in that role. They want you to help with many things as a band parent. I am trying to figure out what I would be good at doing. Did you know that they have scenery and props in marching band shows now? I think that’s something I might be good at helping with.
My calendar next week is full of meetings and faculty development stuff. Department meetings. College meetings. Committee meetings. I volunteered to be on a task force looking at how the university does assessments – that meets next week too. I have been reading more lately on how to be a better teacher. One of the speakers next week will be talking about creative ways to engage students – I’m really looking forward to that. It should be interesting. Sometimes after teaching the same class year after year it is hard to think outside the box and come up with new ideas or teaching methods. These presentations and guest speakers are great for helping to spark ideas and help shape course design changes.
Remember as you make your back to school plans, we have our NBS Fall Conference coming up next month. Matt and Peter have been working hard to get some great programming in place! It looks like it is shaping up to be an outstanding conference yet again. I am looking forward to seeing all of you there. [ ]