(NAPSA)—Even the most skilled and experienced teacher encounters challenges in creating classroom environments whereall students have meaningful learning experiences. If you want to build your skills in creating inclusive learning communities, plan to attend the VSA arts Institute, “Building Skills for the Inclusive Classroom,” which takes place from July 31 to Aug. 3, 2005 at The Crossings in Austin, Texas. “The goal of the VSA arts Institute is to enhance and strengthen the ability of practi- tioners to integrate the arts into education while also meeting the needs of people with disabilities,” said Soula Antoniou, president of VSA arts. “I encourage anyone who is serious about including and reaching all learners to attend this vital program.” The VSA arts Institute is four days of intensive professional development led by top arts-ineducation leaders and designed for educators, teaching artists, arts administrators, and educa- tion leaders. We encourage all interested professionals to attend the VSA arts Institute, including those working in the arts, with learners with disabilities and those seeking to deepen their knowledge of inclusive arts education practices. The focus of this particular forum is on music and visual arts. Participants will join a learning community of teachers and artists working to discover how to create engaging lessons and environments that meet the diverse learning needsofall students. The Institute features core sessions, guest speakers, panel presentations, hands-on workshops, an open art studio facilitated by a master artist. In addi- a =e ca : Photo credit: Scott Suchman Creating engaging lessons and environments to meet the needs of all students is the focus of a new program. tion, daily reflective-study groups to develop professional action plans, and private consultation with faculty are offered. Registration options are available online at www.vsarts.org. Institute attendees will receive special room rates at The Crossings, a progressive learning center, meeting place and wellness spa located just outside of Austin, Texas. For more information, visit www.thecrossingsaustin.com. The next VSA arts Institute will be held at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville, Fla., from Nov. 2 to 5, 2005. VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts. Today, as a leader in arts-based teaching and learning, the arts programs of VSA arts support key national education goals: literacy and school readiness, teacher training, and parental involvement in education. A network of affiliates— nationwide and in more than 60 countries—serves more than five million people.
