Getting It All Done: Managing Performing Arts Electives

by Mike Alpert | Jun 20, 2022

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$78

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Take this Course 70 minutes (1.2 hours)

Teachers of the performing arts travel a lonely road. They’re often a department of one, they pour in the extra hours, and they’re required to be logistical superheroes. In this course, Mikaela Gladstone talks all things middle school drama. She shares insights into how she plans for productions, how to navigate show licensing, when to tap parents for support, and so much more.

Then, high school vocal music director James Laguana offers his hard-earned professional advice. Learn how he engages reluctant students, avoids common instructional frustrations, and maintains flexibility in the face on uncontrollable circumstances. James discusses all of this and more of the teaching tools that earned him the Schomp 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year award.

Participants will receive a certificate of completion reflecting a total course time of 70 minutes (1.2 hours) and course completion on a provided transcript.

Course Content

MIKAELA GLADSTONE ON INSPIRATION, PLANNING, AND STUDENT SUCCESS IN DRAMA

Mikaela’s Background 4:51

Learn more about Mikaela’s background including attending college in New York, Broadway aspirations, and the move to education.

Production Planning 2:17

The planning process can be complex. Mikaela discusses the high-level overview of the planning process for a drama production, including a plan to communicate expectations to students and parents.

Show Licensing 6:44

“Grease is easily the most expensive show to license …” Go in-depth on the good, the bad, and the expensive of show licensing at all levels. What will a show really cost to produce at your school?

Mikaela’s Dream Show (And Hamilton) 2:41

Mikaela answers the question, “If you had an unlimited budget, what show would you do?” (Spoiler: It’s not Hamilton). Also, Mikaela shares her thoughts on Hamilton and how it’s impacted her program.

Getting Stuff Done: Production Planning and Parent Volunteers 2:32

There’s far more to do than you can tackle on your own. How to enlist the help of parents.

Rejecting Kids 2:57

Get Mikaela’s foolproof plan for posting a cast list and dealing with student disappointment.

Managing Rehearsals 3:16

Here are some tried and true methods of avoiding distractions and managing behavior during rehearsals.

Day of the Show 2:45

How can you possibly be expected to teach and prepare for opening night on the day of your first show?

Matinees vs. Night Shows 4:03

“It’s fine for the kids; it’s too much for me.” How many shows should you run? Are matinees worth it? Let’s find out.

Advice to New Theater Teachers 4:03

Worried about taking over a program for a beloved director? Curious about which show to do first? Consider these suggestions.

The Stress of Teaching Electives and Managing Colleague Relationships 11:52

It doesn’t get discussed enough, but electives teachers have a uniquely challenging job … and they often feel misunderstood by their core colleagues. Let’s talk about it.

JAMES LAGUANA ON CHANGING KIDS LIVES THROUGH VOCAL PERFORMANCE

James’ Background 8:30

James shares how he developed his love for singing from a young age. (This clip is from our original podcast with James).

Advice to New Teachers, But Relevant for All 4:43

When you have a lesson go sideways, do this to reflect and try again.

Reflecting in the Moment 2:50

Feeling frustrated? Take a moment, step away from your class, and look at the bigger picture.

A Unique Ice Breaker That (Usually) Works … But Always Leads to Laughter 4:36

Mike and James discuss flexibility in planning performances … especially in the face on uncontrollable circumstances.

Talking to Admin About Class Size 3:38

Electives can yield unpredictable class sizes. James recounts his experiences of working with his school leaders to optimize the benefits of large classes for both himself and his students.

Getting It All Done – Final Quiz