Marie Meegan – salem Public Schools
It was quite a surprise to learn that I had been nominated for the Retired Art Educator of the Year Award 2020. My relationship with MAEA began when a Connecticut friend of mine invited me to work with her on her presentation for a New England Art Education Conference held on Cape Cod. It was so much fun, I was hooked. This was only the first of many presentations made either solo or with other teachers.
MAEA was especially enjoyable because we could meet colleagues from other communities, share ideas, and communicate with people who understood our modus operandi. Instead of working alone, as most art teachers do, we were together and in sync with one another.
Our leaders at the time, John Michael and Timothy, could not have worked harder or been more cheerful and welcoming. They knew everyone by name, and made sure we enjoyed a great banquet after which we paraded around the room in theme-based costumes, being judged for prizes.
Another mentor, Professor Nicholas Wagman, of Salem State College, formed The North Shore Art Teachers Association. His goal was to keep his students in touch with one another. When Nick invited those of us, who mentored his student teachers, to join the group, Dot Arthur and I became Nick’s back-up staff. We gave the members highly professional presentations from “hands-on” art lessons, tracking student progress, or recertification information. So, our relationships and our friendships grew and grew.
When Nick Wagman passed away, Dot and I picked up his initiative which continues today. When we stepped down from leading the group, Emily Englehart and Simone Kivet graciously picked up where we left off. Currently, they are holding Zoom meetings. Their most recent meeting shared techniques for teaching art online. Please get in touch with them and join NSATA.
Many thanks to Massachusetts Art Education Association for all the work they do and all the joy they bring.
Massachusetts Art Educator of the Year, 2003
Bachelor of Art, Anna Maria College, Paxton, MA
Master of Science in Art Education, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
Advanced Studies in Moderate Special Needs, Lesley University
Retired: Salem, MA Public Schools; Post Retirement, Coordinator of Graduate Studies in Art Education, Salem State University
