Engdahl selected for fellowship to bring creativity into the classroom

Josie Engdahl, a 5th grade High Ability Teacher at Anderson Intermediate School, was one of 20 educators from across the state chosen by the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) to participate in a new program centered on bringing arts and creativity into the classroom. This prestigious program invited top educators to participate in hands-on training sessions followed by implementation of a full semester of arts activities in the classroom.

"After reading through what the program had to offer, it was a no brainer for me," said Engdahl. "I am always looking for outside of the box ideas to incorporate into my classroom. One thing I tell my students is "How can you make your project or presentation standout from the person next to you?". I think it is only fair that I ask myself this question as well when creating my lessons."

The Indiana Educator Fellowship for Creative Teachers is a program of the IAC in partnership with the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) that celebrates and supports outstanding educators throughout the state in implementing creativity-centered innovation in the classroom.

Research shows creative teaching strategies, also known as arts integration, improve student engagement, student learning retention, and student literacy skills.

“We selected some of the most energetic, innovative educators across the Hoosier State to participate in this fellowship,” said Stephanie Haines, Arts Education and Accessibility program manager at the IAC. “It is exciting to meet with so many inspired educators who are ready to integrate arts and creativity into the classroom to the benefit of their students."

The fellows will attend a series of virtual learning sessions and will receive two days of immersive, hands-on training in connecting creativity to state standards, access to a fully funded in-school creative arts residency, and a $1,000 honorarium.

"I am very excited to be selected for this year's cohort!," added Engdahl. "It means a lot to me, as you look at the list I am one of the few Elementary teachers selected. Creativity is so important during the Elementary ages and it is amazing what their little brains can come up with. I am excited that I can enhance my own creativity to help my students!"

Click here to learn more about the Indiana Educator Fellowship for Creative Teachers.

Educators who are interested in learning more about arts integration are invited to attend the one-day in-person training. This free training opportunity will take place on July 11, 2023 at Franklin College.