We are all proud of our names, and as teachers, we know the importance of using our students' names (and their correct pronunciations). In today's episode, Nic talks about the power of names, the fun that comes with nicknames, and how being vulnerable when learning names can help build relationships.

• Pronouncing 'Ngo' videos are here and here
• Name Art Designs
• The Perfect Game to Learn Students' Names

In today's episode, Nic takes a look back at the past months and everything that has happened since the death of George Floyd. Her reflections today cover how she reacted with the podcast, online, and in her own life. Listen as she discusses her willingness to listen and learn, her realization and acceptance that she would make mistakes, and how she wants to continue to take action.

• Untamed by Glennon Doyle
• Derrick Adams
• A Perspective from Minnesota (Ep. 145)
• Using Art to Help Our Community (Ep. 147)
• The Importance of Equity (Ep. 149)

For those doing virtual learning, the question of supplies is one that has been difficult to answer. Today, Nic discusses some strategies that may help. Listen as she talks to Jesse Armstrong about her plans for distance learning, the kits she put together for her students, and her expectations for the next few months. 

• How to Stay Safe in Your Art Room
• Research-Backed Ways to Improve Virtual Learning
• How to Help Students with Feedback Online
• Follow Jesse on Instagram

There are so many questions and so many concerns that come with remote learning, none of which are easy to answer. But today, Nic talks to elementary art teacher Jason Blair about how he makes remote learning meaningful for his students. Listen as they discuss creativity, passion, and how we can envision a better school experience.

• Follow Jason on Twitter
• Grow Creative Thinkers
• Making Creativity Visible

How much focus does your school put on cross-curricular learning? Whether it is a point of emphasis for you or simply a way to help your students with their learning, Nic has ideas on how you can incorporate more math into the art studio. Listen as she talks about lessons on symmetry, geometry, pattern, and so much more.

• 5 Ways to Make Cross-Curricular Connections
• The Perfect Lesson to Connect Art and Math
• 35 Lessons that Pair Math and Art
• 6 Ways to Connect Art and Math

Every teacher has a medium that they aren't as comfortable with, or that they hesitate to use in their classroom. For many, that medium is technology. In this episode, Nic discusses how she utilizes technology in her art studio, including hardware and tools, her favorite apps, and how technology can enhance student learning.

• Brushes Redux App and Lesson
• Fashion Design Lesson
• Pottery App
• View Nic's Stop Motion Resources

As art teachers, the demands on our time right now are as great as ever. But those demands do not lessen the importance of making time for ourselves and making time for art. In this episode, Nic talks to art teacher Kara Aina about balancing work life, family life, and everything else while still finding time for yourself.

• Follow Kara on Instagram
• View Kara's website
• 12 Ways to Balance Teaching Art and Creating Art
• How to Rethink Creativity When It's Gone Missing

Professional development is always important, whether it is during the summer or the school year. Today, Nic welcomes on Matt and Laura Grundler to discuss their favorite avenues for PD. Listen as they talk about the K-12 Art Chat, the importance of creativity, and using their podcast to have important conversations.

• Follow Matt and Laura on Twitter
• Follow Matt and Laura on Instagram
• Check out the Grundler Art website
• Take a look at the Grundler's Adobe page

Distance learning is undoubtedly a challenge for every teacher, and most teachers are navigating how to teach their same lessons in a new way. But what does that look like when you want to teach clay? Today, Nic welcomes on Leah Schultz to discuss how she has handled distance learning, the things she has learned, and how she taught clay projects with every grade level during quarantine. 

• Painted Paper Art Bird's Nest
• Dragon Eyes by Katie Blanchard on Instagram
• The Face Vase
• Bugs by Sarah Krajewski on Instagram
• The Ladybug Hug Book

If you look hard enough, you might be able to find a small silver lining in distance learning--a new way to work with our colleagues. In this episode, Nic talks about how she connected with her team to end the last school year and what lessons she will take into the fall.

• Read Nic's blog post about celebrating student learning
• Find the AutoCrat app
• 4 Reasons to Meet with the Art Teachers in Your District
• When Times are Tough, Your Attitude is Everything