Integration and the collaborative process

Many NC charter schools have specific approaches to learning. Evergreen Charter School in Buncombe County uses an "Outward Bound" approach to the NCSCOS (North Carolina Standard Course of Study), emphasizing experiential learning. At ArtSpace we utilize the arts and technology in an integrated approach to the NCSCOS. Integration is our byword. By integrating drama, music, dance/movement, art (visual and other) and tech together, we strive to engage kids with the curriculum, unlocking their creativity and giving them as many opportunities to succeed as possible. This whole-arts, whole-child integration takes work, but a way our school tackles that challenge is through our arts integration team. Each month the AI team (drama, dance, music, art and tech specialists) meets with classroom teachers to coordinate integration of the different arts into what each grade is covering. When I'm on top of my game (and planning) I find these meetings very helpful and even exciting at times. (Meetings, exciting?) I may bring an idea for a project I am planning and by the time the meeting is over, we have developed that project idea into a unit that has connections all across the arts. Since my sixth grade teaching partner (the fabulous Amy Strickland - math/science) is also in the meeting, we often find ways to collaborate on projects as well.

This is how we do it. I know the arts are a great tool for teaching, but I also know there are other successful approaches as well. What approach does your school embrace? Share it please!