Once again, Cornell University’s Johnson Museum of Art brought creativity to life in a special professional development event organized by TST’s Regional School Success (RSS) department. On Friday, October 18, educators from across central New York gathered in the TST Region to explore the Art of Gardens, led by a thoughtfully curated group of local artists and scientists. Architect I. M. Pei may have designed the museum as a concrete frame for the natural beauty of Cayuga Lake, but Maryterese Pasquale Bowen and Carol Hockett from the Johnson Museum’s Education Department worked alongside RSS to create a day that inspired art lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
Participants had opportunities to explore everything from Precious Okoyomon’s earthwork “Theory of a Curve” to Seeds of Survival and Celebration to teaching and learning in the Weed Science Garden. Students, Research Support Specialists and Professors from Cornell University joined 15 educators from Ithaca, South Seneca, George Junior, TST BOCES and surrounding areas on a diverse exploration or art, science, history and culture. K-12 students may not be lining up to taste the different weeds that Bobbie Kulhman and Dr. Antonio DiTommaso from the School of Integrative Plant Science shared on their visit to the Nevin Center, but their teachers definitely left with new seeds of knowledge to plant across our Region. Doug LaFave, a participant from ICSD, shared his thoughts and gratitude for such a wonderful day by stating, “I have been to some of the gardens on my own, but not in such an informative way.” Carrie Contento, another teacher from the TST Region shared her thoughts, “I kept linking back to the first 'nature work exhibit' we saw around the museum. And I wondered what is of value, how do we define value or give importance or worth, to a plant or a human? What happens if we just let nature take its course and don't interfere?”
Overall, participants found this RSS workshop an enriching and enjoyable experience. At TST BOCES, RSS is dedicated to providing professional development that supports and inspires educators across our region. We're grateful for every opportunity to collaborate with experts like those at Cornell University, whose enthusiasm and expertise left participants brimming with new ideas. To explore more professional development offerings, check out our RSS regional calendar for sessions that engage every interest and discipline: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/Catalog.asp?D=10453&H=1