START Program

(Students Teaching in the ARTs)

What is START?

Organized by the Outreach Department of the Hopkins Center for the Arts, START (Students Teaching in the Arts) pairs Dartmouth student volunteers with teachers in Upper Valley schools. Teachers and Dartmouth students work together to create artistic lesson plans that expand on the existing curricula for grades 3-8.

START is a great opportunity for Dartmouth students to do something positive for the Upper Valley community by making a difference in the lives of local school children. Information packets for area teachers and Dartmouth students are available by clicking the link below.

Logistics

Dartmouth students of all majors are welcome to join START. Some history with the performing or visual arts is preferred, although it is not mandatory. The program is a one-term (eight-week) commitment. During the first week, volunteers undergo a comprehensive training session, and are required to meet with their placement teacher before the first classroom visit. Once the visits begin, volunteers teach one hour a week for six week with additional time outside the classroom for lesson planning and preparation. START also requires volunteers to become Dartmouth driver certified.

Throughout the term, volunteers will check in with the START coordinators and fellow volunteers to brainstorm lesson plans and problem solve any difficulties they may be having. Supplies and materials will be provided either through resources at the Hop or through the placement school. Volunteers may drive their own cars to the schools, or START will provide the group with transportation.

Interested?

START Senior Intern Job—Now taking applications

Be a Volunteer!

Documents for Dartmouth Students:

START Volunteer—Now taking applications

Students please contact START@dartmouth.edu for more information.

Be a Partner Classroom!

Documents for Teachers:

Teachers interested in having START in their classroom should read the info above and submit a Project Proposal form. Contact Mary Gaetz at mary.gaetz@dartmouth.edu or 603-646-2010 with questions or for more information.

“The START program creates an opportunity for Dartmouth students to join with local school children in their classrooms and enhance the classroom curriculum through the arts. The START volunteers bring a vibrant energy to the classrooms and make personal connections to the children. Because they come in a small group, they are able to give individual attention to the students. I encourage other educators to take advantage of this program and enrich their curriculum through the integration of the arts with the START program.” Judy Anderson, Ray School (ret.)