Perpich News
Rebecca Bullen Presents at 2022 Arts Schools Network National Conference
November 8, 2022
Rebecca Bullen, Perpich Arts High School Assistant Principal and Studio Arts Chair, was a presenter at the 2022 Arts Schools Network (ASN) National Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, October 25-28, 2022. Bullen presented a session titled, “The Value of Critique and How to Get Students There”. The session discussed the value of classroom critiques and developing creative thinkers, what success looks like and how to get students there. “I included tools for sharing language, critiquing processes, and rubrics,” said Rebecca. “It was a wonderful group of teachers, principals, and art school directors. We practiced, laughed, and shared tools and techniques to support students in this challenging and rewarding process. In addition to sharing resources and insights, I gained new techniques to bring back. It is a rewarding opportunity. I feel fortunate to attend and be selected to present.”
“The Arts Schools Network National Conference is a great way to gain insights, share programming, and connect with art schools from across the US,” added Bullen. “It is amazing to be surrounded with arts focused educators, administrators, and people who see the value and need to support our young people in and through the arts. It is an environment that supports and encourages creativity and features student work throughout.” Joining Rebecca at the conference was Perpich Center’s Executive Director, Dr. Charles Rick. They attended student dance, theater, and music performances and saw visual and media arts works. They also had the opportunity to connect with students in local arts schools. “It was affirming to hear the impact of their arts education experiences. I love this conference; I always leave feeling inspired and with new connections and insights,” said Bullen.
In addition to being a conference attendee and presenter, Rebecca Bullen was honored in a ceremony recognizing the 2022 Arts Schools Network Leadership Certificate participants. The Leadership Certificate program is a nine-month virtual program that began in January, 2022. The program “emerged from a global study integrating theories of mindfulness, critical reflection, arts entrepreneurship, and educational futures to cultivate the next generation of leaders working in the cultural and education sectors.” Over the last nine months, Bullen worked with a small cohort, Arts Schools Network, and Creative Generation, to “reimagine the structures of leadership, evolve cultural and education ecosystems, and develop sustainable systems which cultivate the creative capabilities of young people.” The cohort participated in three learning sessions and monthly gatherings while working on a final project to showcase their learning and re-imagining of leadership.
Rebecca Bullen has worked with Perpich Center for Arts Education since 2010. Her position has 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 currently serves as Chair of the Studio Arts Department and High School Assistant Principal. 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. In 2012 she received the Robert Rauschenberg Power of Art Award. Bullen is a member of the inaugural 2021-2022 Class of Minnesota ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) Emerging Leaders. 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.