Rebecca Bullen Attends 2023 Arts Schools Network National Conference

Rebecca Bullen, Perpich Arts High School Principal

November 15, 2023

Rebecca Bullen, Perpich Arts High School Principal, attended the 2023 Arts Schools Network (ASN) National Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, October 24-26, 2023. The conference theme was “Teaching Anti-Racism & Equity Through the Arts”. With Birmingham’s historical connection to the Civil Rights Movement, “this felt the perfect place for arts leaders, educators, and administrators to come together and focus on acknowledging our systemic educational struggles and successes,” said Bullen. “The arts are a vehicle for change. Having spaces to share experiences and learn from others, provide opportunities to evaluate current practices, critically reflect, and further develop equitable practices is a gift.”

Rebecca was inspired by the stories shared through artistic practices. Bryonn Bain, an activist, actor, and spoken word artist shared his pre-Broadway show, “Lyrics From Lockdown“. Ashley M. Jones, Poet Laureate of the state of Alabama, inspired the attendees with her poetry and teaching practices. Harvey Young, Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Boston University, spoke on the theme of “Arts Leadership in the Storm of Antiracism and Anti-Wokeness”. He provided insights and examples of ways to “seed a new culture of arts criticism and arts journalism.” His presentation ended with the need to center advocacy as a daily activity.

“I left inspired, frustrated, and fueled,” said Bullen. “I made new connections and broadened my network of support. It was a privilege and I am grateful for the experience.”

Rebecca Bullen has worked with Perpich Center for Arts Education since 2010. Her positions have included media arts teacher, arts education specialist, and during the 2013-14 school year, she worked with Crosswinds Arts and Science School to develop its visual and media arts program. She most recently served as Chair of the Studio Arts Department and High School Assistant Principal. Bullen started as High School Principal in 2023. An active artist and educator, Rebecca has presented at local and national conferences including Arts Educators of Minnesota, Arts Schools Network, TIES, the Religious Educators Association, and the National Arts Educators Conference. Bullen is a member of the inaugural 2021-2022 Class of Minnesota ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) Emerging Leaders. She was awarded the Arts & Cultural Education Leadership Certificate by Arts Schools Network and Creative Generation during the Arts Schools Network Annual Conference in October, 2022. As a media artist, in addition to artist residencies in MN K-12 schools, she worked for 7 years at MN Public Television (TPT) as a producer. Rebecca has an Associate Degree from Russell Sage College, NY; a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design; a K-12 Visual Arts Licensure from Concordia University, St. Paul; a Master of Leadership in Education; and PK-12 Administrative Certification from the University of Minnesota.

Arts Schools Network is a non-profit association founded in 1981 with a mission to inspire emerging and seasoned leaders in K-16 arts schools by providing quality resources, support, and networking opportunities to elevate their institutions. Arts school leaders have unique, contextual needs for professional development specific to school-type and job. By convening with peers and representatives from relevant industries, the members collectively create tomorrow’s artists and patrons. The organization’s vision is to empower leaders of arts schools by connecting them regionally, nationally, and internationally to raise the quality, profile, and success of the students whom they serve. ASN has provided communications, programs, services, and events to support arts schools leaders for more than 30 years. The members represent art leaders, schools, and organizations from around the country. They share experiences and expertise in such areas as planning, facilities, finance and fundraising, admissions and recruitment, teacher training, arts integration, community and parent relations, evaluation, career development, and much more.