|
Quotes . . . from California educators
The students are more focused in your
residency and they also see and understand math at work, math and
music relationships and they create harmony as well as fun. Mrs.
Elkins, 4th grade teacher, Center Elementary, Fairfield, CA
I just got an email from the PTA parent
who books all the assemblies, shows, etc. and she asked if we could
just make your dance week an annual event and a new tradition at Mariemont.
Of course I said yes because I can only see the kids getting better
and better at this as the years progress (and the teachers too).Linda
Dismukes, Principal, Mariemont Elementary School, Sacramento, CA
You are avery talented teacher
because you exude warmth, kindness, and fun. The kids love you.
Linda Guerrero, Teacher, Wilson Elementary School, Fresno, CA
My friend and I had such a wonderful
time dancing last night. I felt such a joyous spirit coming from everyone!
It was so much fun being taught dance steps by 4th and 5th graders
(and you). I laughed when one of the students said
to me, "I think you're FINALLY getting the hang of it!"
I loved every smile, all the sweat, the music and the marvelous essence
of community. How impressive that you could teach so many students
all those dances in such a short amount of time. What a gifted teacher
you are! Thank you for a remarkable evening.
Shivon Lavely, Teacher, Lincoln Elementary School, Exeter, CA
"As always, your weeks here were
just awesome! We have had so many comments from parents as well as
the kids on how much they enjoyed the Barn Dance. I think this year's
event was the best one yet. Thanks again for giving our kids such
a rewarding, enjoyable, life-giving experience! Barbara McNamer,
Teacher, Las Juntas Elementary School, Martinez, CA (see
pictures 10/03)
The students were thrilled!
Music and dance, the universal language ties all cultures together
as one. Best yet, having professional teachers to teach it right.
Our leader should be highly commended for bringing such an awesome
program! Carolyn Patterson, McKinnon Elementary School, Salinas,
CA
"Everyone had a blast Friday
night at the barn dance. Teachers, parents and students were extremely
complimentary about how much the students learned and how excited
they were to be able to show what they learned. Thanks again for all
your hard work and dedication." Cheryl Spetrino, Principal,
Carl Hankey Elementary, Mission Viejo, CA
"I know that exposing students
to music and dance enhances their school experience and brings joy
to their lives. I thank you again, for sharing your gifts with our
students. Lots of very positive changes are happening at Tarpey, and
your dance week is one of them." Jerry Grieco, Teacher, Tarpey
Elementary School, Clovis, CA
"It was quite a night and I think
that the grins on people's faces told it best. The kids were so proud
of themselves and it was truly a packed event!" Donna Yokomizo,
Principal, Hidden Hills Elementary School, San Ramon, CA
"We would like to thank you again
for bringing the Folk Music/Dance Program to Del Rio School. The children
loved it, to say the least. The teachers loved it. If not for presentations
like yours, dance and music may be lost in the schools. It takes people
like you to rekindle the happiness that music and dance bring. From
personal experience, 19 years of teaching, I have NEVER enjoyed a
guest teacher as much as you. The Arts committee hopes that our PTC
will find the funds to have you back next year." Teacher,
Del Rio Elementary School, Bakersfield, CA
"I thought we were going to have
a week long folk dance residency, what I didn't expect was a geography
residency, a history residency, a cross culture residency, and a cooperation
and respect residency as well. I hope all is going well. We had our
first meeting re writing an art grant for next year and you were at
the top of the list of things we will continue." Martin St.
John, Principal/Superintendant. Lakeside School, Los Gatos, CA(see pictures)
"My students and I had
such a good time with you last week. When I first told them they
would be dancing like the upper grades, I heard nothing but moans
and groans. When the week was over, they were truly sorry to
see you go. You can tell from their notes how much they enjoyed
your visit. I put a special note on top. This student is an extremely
difficult child. His home life is horrendous. He bullies others
and has been suspended many times, he is very bright, but extremely
dyslexic. He hates to write, but he was thrilled to let you know
how he felt about you. He rarely lets people see his heart. Thank
you so much for doing what you do. In these days of test scores,
writing samples and accountability, you remind us of the simple
pleasures of life." Karen Westersund, Teacher, Del Mar
Elementary School, Fresno
"The courtesy and respect that
is part of dance is so important for our kids and society...Thank
you!" Susan Schmale, Teacher, Susan B. Anthony School, Fresno,
CA
It was one of the "best ever"
events we have had according to many parents. I was so proud of the
student who really knew their steps and
took the lead...even kdg and 1st graders! I will pass on your offers
and options and the PTA will get back to me regarding next year. Everyone
is still "reeling" from the wonderful evening! Margaret
Lui, Principal, Pershing School, Sacramento, CA
This fit in very well with our social
studies area in 5th grade - American History and the variety of people
that have contributed to our country. The sequence the dances were
taught made it possible to learn five dances in five days!
Linda Judd, Teacher, Buena Vista Elementary School, Walnut Creek,
CA (see
pictures)
It was totally wonderful. Each child
was on equal ground and totally engaged. This was the best program
we've had in the past 4 years. Ms. Santoro, Teacher (grade 2),
Howard Elementary School, Madera, CA
This has been such a meaningful experience
for our students. It was amazing to see the transformation of the
5th and 6th graders from disdainful, belligerent social contact to
purposeful, enjoyable work through dance and music. Huge accolades
to you for your talent and your teaching. We look forward to next
year. What a thrill to see so many students learning, laughing and
having fun. I honor your life's work and encourage you to keep at
it. You are making a wonderful difference in the lives of children
as well as teachers. Terry Marinaro, Vice Principal, Del Mar Elementary
School, Fresno, CA (see pictures)
All groups, K-6, enjoyed Mr. Bluestein's
training. Students take a bit of Mr. Bluestein's perspective, make
it their own, and put it to immediate practice. All schools should
have this residency. F. Cogan, Teacher, John Wash Elementary School,
Fresno, CA
The comments and evaluations
that we received from the teachers after your residency were
gratifying and fulfilling. You are well received by all--students
and the teachers.
Mary Ellen McIlrath, Executive Director, Arts Council of Tulare
County, CA
The week was great. Evo relates well
with the kids. The kids were proud of what they learned. Parents were
very impressed. Call us next year! Kathy Towle, Director, Fairmont
Private School Fresno, CA
The sessions were very well received
and the evening concert on Friday was a wonderful culminating experience
for all. The students benefited greatly from your visit. Thanks for
sharing with our kids. Dede Nibler, Director, Roosevelt School
of the Arts, Roosevelt High School, Fresno, CA(see pictures)
We video taped last Friday's performance.
I saw a school full of happily enriched children! Thanks for once
again inspiring the Lakeside children and infusing them with the joy
of music and dance. Fred & Sarah Glover, Parents, Lakeside
Community School, Los Gatos
My special day class students were
enthralled by the program. This is quite an accomplishment for any
entertainer. The program was well put together and I felt there were
no dull moments. We want more. I can't think of a more successful
program. Thank everyone involved in bringing this program to our school.
Patty Merigian, Special Day Class - functional skills, Del Mar
Elementary School, Fresno, CA
Thank you for having that one guy teach us how to dance. That is very
fun. I think it is cool how he knows how to do all of those neat dances.
I think it is going to be fun to be in an assembly and actually dancing
in front of all the lower graders.
Kelly Kosmosky, Student, Del Mar Elementary School, Fresno, CA
Evo, everyone enjoyed your American
folk program. We need to plan again for next year! Roz Tampone,
Principal, John S. Wash Elementary School, Fresno, CA
"I was amazed at Mr. Bluestein's
ability to keep the students focused and controlled for an hour. Also
at how fast they learned the Virginia Reel. The students loved the
rhythm, songs and dancing--they loved it all!" Carol Lovell,
Teacher (2nd grade) Del Rio Elementary School, Bakersfield, CA
The program modeled rhythm,
pattern, cooperation, partner communication skills. The children
saw culture being respected and valued! Very nice feeling generated
among students. Renee Larson, Teacher, Del Mar Elementary
School, Fresno
You're a terrific instructor.
The students learned so much and they enjoyed the dancing. Thanks,
Mrs. Melgarejo, Teacher, McCabe Elementary School, Mendota
(see
pictures)
I appreciate the enthusiasm Evo generated
in the students of all ages. Thanks again. We had a great week! Sharon
Swanson, Teacher, Sierra View Elementary School, Madera, CA
My class and I really enjoyed
the week. I wish we had more time. The performance, the variety
of activities, the instruments and the fun songs were effective.
Mrs. Jolliff, Sierra View Elementary School, Madera, CA
I really liked the fact that each
group learned different dances and songs, then they were brought together
to see each other Friday. The explanations of the origins of songs
and dances were interesting and meaningful to my students. It sparked
discussion in class. I eagerly look forward to another wonderful
week next year. D. Burns, Teacher, Del Mar Elementary School, Fresno,
CA
I loved watching our kids perform
the songs and dances you taught them. Your program is a very important
part of their educational experience! Nancy Nelson, Teacher, John
S. Wash Elementary School, Fresno, CA
This was a wonderful program for all
of our students. My class really enjoyed your visit. You were marvelous.
Joyce Grothman, Teacher, John S. Wash Elem. School, Fresno, CA
My shy students were definitely not
reserved during this experience! The whole class was engaged! Thanks
so much! Cynthia Robey, Teacher, Buena Vista School, Walnut Creek,
CA
Top
of Page
|
