WEBINAR: Margins to the Middle: Developing Core Competencies in Auxiliary

The auxiliary learning space has a tremendous opportunity to elevate student learning, expression, and voice. The freedom and experiential possibilities for high quality learning opportunities outside of the school day are increasingly sought by students and schools, but the educational experiences in summer and after school are sometimes viewed as separate and inferior to the regular school day, rather than an integral piece of a larger portfolio of learning. Literacy, as an example, does not have to take place in the confines of the language arts classroom during the school day to be effective (and engaging and fun). Digital storytelling is one research-based way to support literacy objectives while promoting creativity, engagement, and collaboration during "out of school" time. Organic to the process are activities like script writing, directing, graphics creation, and acting–as well as explorations of cool narrative genres, such as mysteries, fairy tales, and comedies. This webinar will share the educational research and describe ways that digital storytelling can elevate your auxiliary program offerings.

Presenter:

Brett Pierce is the founder and Executive Director of the non profit Meridian Stories which provides a digital storytelling platform for students. He is the author of Expanding Literacy: Bringing Digital Storytelling into Your Classroom (Spring 2022). Brett has spent much of his professional life at Sesame Workshop in New York City, serving as a Co-Executive Producer on media projects about literacy, math, science, gender equity and conflict-resolution for youth around the world. He recently completed writing National Geographic’s award winning Storytelling for Impact courses (Gold Winner, Anthem Awards). As a former independent school English teacher, Brett is committed to promoting literacy in and outside of the classroom.