Episode Notes -

In this melodic episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak sits down with the multifaceted Derek Primo Silverman, music and "other things" maestro at Hillbrook. The conversation strikes a harmonious blend of music, technology, and education as they delve into the intricacies of the Winter Concert and the role AI played in refining the show choir's performance. Derek shares the behind-the-scenes magic of arranging popular songs, the unexpected tempo tweaks, and the innovative use of AI-driven audio manipulation software from iZotope to polish the choir's recordings.

The duo also explores the broader implications of AI in audio, from enhancing student creativity to its potential for improving urban soundscapes and overall well-being. As they discuss the transformative power of tools like GarageBand and Loopy HD, the episode resonates with the excitement of making music production more accessible and inspiring for students.

Tune in for an enlightening symphony of ideas, illustrating how AI is not just changing the future of music but also amplifying the educational experience at Hillbrook School. Listen in as Bill and Derek riff on the future of sound, and don't miss the buzz about upcoming musicals "13" and "Beauty and the Beast Junior."

Episode Notes -

Join host Bill Selak, Director of Technology at Hillbrook School, for an engaging and lively discussion with two special guests, both named Vanessa. In this episode, Vanessa Fernandez, Program and Research Lead for the Scott Center, and VanNessa Hulme Silberman, Performing Arts Director at Hillbrook, dive into the world of art and activism. They explore how art serves as a powerful tool for teaching and understanding complex subjects like early 20th-century literature, and how it reflects cultural shifts and technological advancements. The conversation also touches on the public art renaissance in San Jose and its impact on education. The Vanessas share their personal journeys in art and activism, discussing how they incorporate these elements into their teaching and personal projects. From transforming classic plays to reflect modern sensibilities to fostering student-led social impact projects, this episode is a testament to the power of art in shaping perspectives and driving change. Listen in for an inspiring blend of art, education, and activism, and how these elements are interwoven at Hillbrook School.

Episode Notes -

In this episode of the Hillbrook School podcast, host Bill Selak engages in a one-on-one conversation with Martin, the Hub Engineer at Hillbrook. Martin shares his unique journey from aspiring designer to industrial design graduate, highlighting his passion for helping students bring their creative dreams to life. He discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching, emphasizing the importance of failure as a learning tool. Martin also delves into his personal venture of crafting wallets, blending aesthetics with functionality, and the lessons learned from running a business. The episode explores the Hillbrook Engineering Learning program, where students are encouraged to experiment and innovate, and the impact of design thinking in education. Join Bill and Martin for an inspiring discussion on creativity, education, and the power of pursuing one's passions.

Episode Notes -

In this episode, art teachers Laura and Susie join host Bill Selak to discuss how visual arts education enhances creativity and imagination in ways that benefit every profession. From amusing elementary student dream jobs like "duck helper" to thought-provoking insights about art's impact on happiness and fulfillment, this episode how skills like keen observation, perseverance, and design thinking lend themselves to careers like detective, architect, and engineer. Laura and Susie share anecdotes about teaching techniques like blind contour drawing to train sight and hand-eye coordination. Their passion for the arts shines through as they assert visual arts' role in improving lives by building community and fulfillment.

Episode Notes -

Explore how music education is not just an isolated subject but can be integrated into other areas of the curriculum. Hear about real-world examples from Hillbrook where music has been used to enhance learning in subjects like math, history, and even science.

Jamie unveils her passion for the Orff approach, where young musicians improvise and find their groove. Derek rocks music class, leading a 20-piece middle school rock band, with so much student interest that students are doubling up on instruments! VanNessa conducts a choral revolution, growing enrollment from just four to over 100 voices. Listen in as this tight-knit ensemble fills Hillbrook with symphonic sounds.

Episode Notes -

In this episode, Director of Technology Bill Selak sits with Hub Director Clara Ngo to discuss the evolving landscape of education and the importance of design and engineering. They explore how the "Four C's" of 21st-century learning—Communication, Collaboration, Critical thinking, and Creativity—have been expanded by students to include values like curiosity and choice. The conversation also delves into the role of technology, from Canva to Cricut, in fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Both Selak and Ngo emphasize the value of failure as a learning opportunity, underscoring the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

Episode Notes -

The episode delves into the nature of creativity at Hillbrook, discussing the distinctions between performing arts, visual arts, design, and making. The educators emphasize the importance of mistakes in the learning process, the role of empathy, and the significance of audience-centric creation. The conversation underscores the broader implications of these creative endeavors, highlighting their impact on interpersonal interactions and personal growth.

Episode Notes -

We all know that (discussions of) artificial intelligence is taking over the world... one robot at a time. At Hillbrook, we've always pushed what's possible with the latest technologies, especially when it comes to our students. So, let’s get together and talk about AI in the classroom.

This podcast description was written by ChatGPT.

Collection of resources on AI in Education available at https://wakelet.com/wake/AHAql39IDVSmjynlhGGKM

Episode Notes -

Join Director of Technology Bill Selak as hit talks with performing arts teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and ceramic arts teacher Laura Hale about the Artist's Lens. Analogous to a scientific lens/bias, the artist's lens leverages lessons from the arts like co-creation and interpersonal skills to other disciplines.

Episode Notes-

Performing Arts Teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and Art Teacher Susie Heeter sit down with Bill Selak to talk about the inaugural 4th grade drama performance. Hear about the collaborative process of creating costumes and masks, and how our fourth graders brought down the house in their plays.