Nick Tokman, “Sunshine” on Discovery Channel’s ‘Deadliest Catch,’ speaks nationally building students' self-worth so they think for themselves and make the best decisions for their future. He partners with schools to address common issues students face including peer pressure, high expectations from family and negative influences. Through storytelling and visuals, he shares with students his path prior to becoming known as ‘Sunshine’ on the hit tv show and how he dealt with struggles that many teens and tweens go through along with the mindset he developed to overcome his obstacles, mistakes and failures. After Nick’s presentation, students will leave believing in themselves to say no to peer pressure and other outside influences that get in the way of who they are and what they want to do with their lives. Having presented across the country to crowds as large as 17,000 people, students will leave remembering these lessons in an entertaining and memorable way. Nick is available both live and virtually. See Nick’s website to tour his virtual studio!

Planting Seeds of Joy: Cultivating Environmental Stewardship and Personal Growth Program Description: Cody Wasial, Americas Joy Catalyst, brings Wee Plant Joy's mission to schools through an engaging program that inspires environmental stewardship and personal growth. Small Group Version (15-30 students): Eco-Mindfulness: Guided sound and movement exercises to connect with nature. Seed Planting: Hands-on activity representing personal growth and conservation. Conservation Storytelling: Sharing inspiring Wee Plant Joy project stories. Vision Board Creation: Students design boards reflecting environmental goals. Eco-Action Planning: Brainstorming sessions for local and global environmental initiatives. Assembly Option (Larger groups): Interactive Presentation: Engaging talk on environmental stewardship and personal growth. Group Eco-Mindfulness: Brief guided exercise for the whole assembly. Conservation Storytelling: Sharing impactful Wee Plant Joy stories. Collective Vision: Creating a school-wide environmental vision board. Call to Action: Inspiring students to participate in eco-friendly initiatives and create a campaign alongside Wee Plant JOY efforts . Educational Impact This interactive presentation aims to inspire students to actively engage in conservation efforts while promoting personal growth and enhancing environmental awareness. By combining storytelling, creativity, and actionable planning, students will leave feeling empowered and motivated to make a positive impact on the world around them. This overview captures the essence of your interactive presentation while ensuring clarity and engagement for students. Both versions aim to inspire active participation . The program can be tailored to specific classroom needs and age groups. For older students (9-12), Wee Plant Joy will offer eco-tours, providing hands-on experience with ongoing conservation projects. NOTE: We are building are new Wee Plant Joy Website as we speak which will also have an interactive component that kids can watch and participate in and with as well engage in social media campaigns and follow the journey of Wee Plant Joy and know they are making a difference.

History of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), Glenn displays a large variety of authentic visual items that assist in the learning process and coordinate with the lecture he provides. Some items which are occasionally passed around, if feasible. This integrates a tactile interaction that stimulates the minds of all ages and is always enjoyable. Children are the key to our future and our first priority is them. It is Glenn's pleasure to bring the experience of a field trip to your location offering you convenience, scheduling and cost effectiveness.

Big Air BMX Show featuring some of the World's top BMX Stunt athletes who deliver an unforgettable 40-minute high-energy assembly, complete with a powerful youth message titled the "5 Secrets to Success." The message includes Anti-Drug, Motivation, Goals and Dreams, Respect Other (Anti-Bullying) and Stay in School.

Judd Sunshine – Teaching Artist since 1985 Judd Sunshine began his career as a teaching artist with the renowned school assembly group known as The Hill Brothers. Between 1985 and 2022, The Hill Brothers performed thousands of educational concerts for students all over New York State, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Jersey. Following the retirement of his fellow Hill Brothers and Sister Susie Hill, he continues the tradition of presenting quality, theme driven, educational, and entertaining programs as a solo performer. His 5 themed shows are comprised of songs and messages delivered with gentle humor and loads of audience participation: Anti Bully Literacy Character Ed (Respect and responsibility) Wellness (safe choices!) Americana and Erie Canal Songs Judd also offers an Erie Canal Songwriting residency as well as non themed shows just for the pure fun of it (great for the end of the school year or summer programs/camps!)

We are Lianne and Jaymee Frankel, New York State-certified teachers, sisters, and founders of Chain Reaction, an educational program centered around live music, social-emotional learning, and storytelling. Our Chain Reaction program has been performed at schools and other venues across Long Island and New York City, and teaches concepts such as creating a kindness chain reaction, the power of positive self-talk, the power of music on mental health, and mindfulness/social-emotional learning.

You Can Do a Graphic Novel, Comic Book, Meme, or Zine Categories: Creative Writing, Visual Arts Curriculum. Costs VIRTUAL PROGRAMS (ZOOM) One-hour interactive classes, unlimited participants: $500.00 LIVE IN-PERSON PROGRAMS One day: $1,200.00 Four days: $3,800.00 Eight days: $6,500.00 For venues more than 40 miles from Hudson, NY travel cost of $0.50 mile will be added. For venues more than 40 miles from Valatie, NY travel cost of $0.50 mile will be added. Available year-round. Program Theme: Students learn how to create a graphic novel beginning with a six page comic. It doesn’t matter if they can draw. Stick figures are an expressive way for the reluctant artist to begin. Participants are encouraged to bring their sketchbooks and characters they may already be working on. They will learn about The Creative Process, how to write a Character Study, focus on the beginning, middle, end and twist of a story, and Create Layouts. If the program is an assembly, Barbara talks though the program with on-screen illustrations of the process. The school is to provide a computer, projector and screen. Program Description: Each program is custom tailored to the grade, number of students in the class, and number of sessions. If there are four or more sessions per class, the program finishes with a Graphic Novel Exhibition (see below). The Creative Process: 20 creative tips. Creating Characters: Participants complete bio sheets with the character’s name, age, best friend/side kick, powers (if any), biggest fear, life goal, etc. Plotting: Learning how to plot challenges the student to complete a story. Too many begin the story and throw it out somewhere in the middle. The student learns to plot by color code, a method used by film/tv/graphic novel writers. Layout: Participants learn about panels, thumbnails, dialogue balloons, sequence, and making a page pop. Rather than drawing “talking heads,” they draw a close-up, pull back for a long shot, followed by interior, exterior, bird’s eye views. Everybody works at their own pace. Some are advanced artists/writers while others are beginners. It doesn’t matter where they begin as long as they get going. I hand out a “character bible” sheet and encourage them to think about the beginning, middle, end and twist of their story. The twist is what makes the story interesting. I bring in samples of character bibles from Marvel comics which they can keep, and scripts written by professionals. Feedback is an important part of the program. It usually begins when I hold up a student’s drawing and ask them to suggest a name, age, or character trait. The student can take the suggestions or discard them, however, it opens up discussions. In the first session, students are sometimes quiet/shy with other students but by the second, they open up about their characters and stories. After the last workshop, the doors open to parents, friends, relatives, the community, and the local press. Students show and talk about their work…where they got their inspiration for characters/story. The “Graphic Novel Exhibition” attracts a lot of attention and often results in newspaper articles. Having artwork in the newspaper is great for a student’s self-esteem and for their portfolio. Copies of Barbara's textbook You Can Do a Graphic Novel can be ordered for the school library, and discounts are available from the publisher for class-size orders. http://youcandoagraphicnovel.com/students1.htm

Kit's Interactive Theatre has 16 different high-energy shows that combine history, dance, music, improvisation and a great deal of humor where students and teachers become all the characters in the show. Students learn how their modern lives differ from those of their forebears as they explore how and why these critical events took shape. Programs are imaginative, educational and fun! They range from Ancient Egypt and Women's Rights to Mother Nature and Cinderella's Fairy Godmother.

The Zuzu Acrobats are a world-renowned performance troupe that brings the vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage of African acrobatics to audiences around the globe. With roots deeply embedded in traditional East African arts, the Zuzu Acrobats combine breathtaking acrobatics, high-flying stunts, and awe-inspiring athleticism with an infectious enthusiasm that captivates audiences of all ages. We have performed at over 500 schools in New York State alone! Originating from Kenya and Tanzania, the Zuzu Acrobats have spent years perfecting their craft and honing their skills. Their performances are a seamless blend of agility, strength, balance, and precision, showcasing traditional African music, dance, and costumes. The troupe is committed to not only entertaining but also educating audiences about the rich cultural traditions of Africa. High-Energy Performances: Prepare to be dazzled by gravity-defying flips, contortions, human pyramids, and other incredible stunts. Cultural Immersion: Each show is a vibrant display of African heritage, complete with traditional songs, dances, and attire. Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for all ages, the Zuzu Acrobats offer a show that is both exhilarating and family-friendly, schools, and community gatherings. Audience Engagement: The Zuzu Acrobats thrive on audience interaction, often involving spectators in their performances to create a truly memorable experience. Booking Information Whether you're looking to add a dynamic element to your event or seeking an unforgettable show for your venue, the Zuzu Acrobats deliver an unparalleled performance that leaves a lasting impression. Their talent, enthusiasm, and cultural richness make them a standout choice for any occasion.

I offer two one-person plays (one about Langston Hughes the other about Dr. King) and one poetry reading from my award-winning poetry collection Boneyarn, the only book of poems about slavery in New York City, where the oldest and largest slave cemetery in the United States is located. In conjunction with any of the above presentations, I have thematically related writing workshops so students can have their own creative experience to go along with my presentations. Below are descriptions of the three shows. I also give talks about the Harlem Renaissance, Jazz Trumpeter Louis Armstrong, and Tuskegee Airman Harry Stewart Jr, who was part of the first group of African-American military pilots who fought in World War II. Below are descriptions of the Langston Hughes, Dr. King and Boneyarn presentations. DAVID MILLS PRESENTATIONS 1) The Dreamweaver: Langston Hughes Performance and Creative Writing Workshop What better way to celebrate Harlem Renaissance writer Langston Hughes—affectionately known as “Shakespeare in Harlem”—than to have students see a dramatic 45-minute presentation about Langston Hughes. Actor David Mills, (whose Hughes show was voted the #4 young-adult show in the nation by The American Library Association) does just that. He takes students on a theatrical odyssey of Hughes’ life spanning six decades from his humble Missouri childhood to his days living in Harlem as an adult. Mr. Mills also captures Hughes’ world travels and writing of his classic poems, such as “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” “Mother to Son,” “I, Too,” “Montage of a Dream Deferred” and “Madam Alberta K.” While playing black and white, young, old, and male and female characters, Mr. Mills captures Hughes’ unending love for Harlem—with its foibles and fantasies, bruises and beauty. Mr. Mills show also explores how Hughes wrote nearly 50 plays. A Q&A would follow the presentation. Mr. Mills could also conduct a writing workshop using a Hughes blues poem as a model. 2) Dare to Dream: Dr. King Performance and Creative Writing Workshop In a 45-minute, dramatic presentation for an auditorium of students and teachers, actor David Mills would take the audience on an engaging, historic journey, where they witness Dr. King go from a young preacher (with uncertainties about Civil Rights during the Montgomery Bus Boycott) into the nationally-recognized figure he became during the 1963 March on Washington. Mr. Mills’ stirring performance looks at Dr. King as both the public figure and private man. Be roused, be inspired, be transported by “Dare to Dream,” Mr. Mills’ theatrical tribute to Dr. King. A Q&A would follow the performance. Mr. Mills has worked as a teaching artist and performer for over 20 years in schools, universities, and senior centers. So, in conjunction with the performance Mr. Mills can also lead a 45-minute creative writing workshop, in a smaller classroom setting, using Dr. King’s iconic “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” as a writing prompt. This workshop will get students to write poems in the forms of letters that relate to their lives. Talking to the Bones: Poetry reading about slavery in New York City and Creative Writing Workshop. Award-winning-poet David Mills would read from his collection, Boneyarn, winner of the North American Book Award and the only poetry collection about slavery in New York City, where the oldest and largest slave cemetery in the United States is located. Mr. Mills would conduct a 45-minute reading to an auditorium and use projected visuals to give attendees a sense of 17th-19th century New York. Mr. Mills would discuss the research and writing process that went into creating this groundbreaking book, where he weds little-known colonial history and poetry. What lessons can be learned from coupling these two disciplines. The reading would also be followed by a Q&A. Mr. Mills has worked as a teaching artist and performer for over 20 years in schools. Therefore, in conjunction with the reading, Mr. Mills can lead a 45-minute creative writing workshop that uses a question-and-answer form from his book Boneyarn to get students to write their own poems reflecting on slavery in New York City.

Bi-Okoto creates performances and educational experiences to help audiences of all ages and backgrounds engage and bridge cultural gaps. We use authentic African culture-based theatre, music, drums, dances, cooking, languages, and clothing to accomplish that. Our B-FIT classes are classes offered at our center on a weekly basis. They include West African languages (Yoruba, Kiswahili, etc.); Drumming (for kids, and mixed-levels); Dance (for kids, and adult mixed-levels); Drumming (for kids, and adult mixed levels); AfroPop Dance (ages 13 to adults); Cooking (ages 13 to adults) Images of Africa Summer Camp keep kid 6-12 engaged in activities from our B-FIT classes in. Kids participate in cultural and character-building activities at the center, and they have weekly field trips to various community-based arts activities. In Tolongo Afterschool program we offer similar contents as in our summer camp programming above, but only available when CPS schools are in session. E Sin Mi d’Africa (Come with Me to Africa), Residencies is our cornerstone program. This is a cultural and educational arts residency using multi-sensory, multi-disciplinary learning experiences integrated into student's daily academic curriculum that addresses student needs over the course of a nine-month. This is integrated into the schools’ arts curriculum, working with school. Wa-Zo-Bia Movement & Music Workshop helps students understand math skills, purpose & meaning of the drum and heartbeat, and the communicative language of the drum that mimics different cultural tribes. The workshop compares & illustrates to students the similarities & differences of popular movements & music and how it relates to what is done every day in common situations such as walking. Ekaabo School Assembly program (West African – with emphasis on Nigeria) We take students on an interactive journey from USA to a handful of West African countries. The richness of African culture is revealed through a broad range of dance and languages. Akwaaba and Tooli, are similar program with emphasis on Ghana and Guinea, respectively. “Agidigbo” is a monthly gathering that seeks to foster interactions, drumming, dancing, play reading amongst young adults ages 20-40. “Agidigbo” aims at creating a space with a supportive and welcoming environment to YPs, for discussion, learning, socializing, engaging, and networking opportunities; To further attract and retain/hire Young Professional to the community. HeartBeat Drum Circle- this event is a quarterly event that seeks to foster connection and positive interactions amongst our patrons/community for healing, fun or for music enthusiasts with percussive instruments who come to share and learn. Three Annual stage productions (selections from Igbeyawo, Yemoja, Irin Ajo, etc…) Each production is written to expose the “western” culture to traditional, contemporary, or comedic African theatre which includes a narrating character, live music, songs, dance and students from the adult & children’s classes. Okoto-Kekere (2nd Company) - is designed and tailored to nurture young and budding creatives who are seeking to pursue a career in Afrocentric theater Arts. We pair the youths up with our professional TPAs to provide them with firsthand training and experimental learning opportunities in a holistic way – learning it all, from scripting, backstage management, acting, tech booth management, lighting etc. All our programs are carefully engineered to be in alignment with our mission.

The Museum of Innovation and Science (miSci) offers a variety of engaging STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programs as field trip experiences, virtually, or in-person (off-site) at your location. Each program features a miSci science communicator performing demonstrations and guiding hands-on experiments designed to excite and inform learners. We offer classes in Earth Science, Chemistry, Physical Science, Space, Engineering, Life Science. Our in person outreach classes are 45 minutes long, for up to 25 students in one session. We also have the capability to do the outreach classes as virtual classes in all these subjects. miSci has a Starlab (portable planetarium) that we can bring to a school, or area building to do up to 5 - thirty minute shows in one day. We also have star parties for naked eye viewing, weather permitting. We offer field trips which include a class, a planetarium show and time in the museum to explore. With suggestions from teachers we can adjust the topics in a planetarium show or for a different class topic if we are given a 3 week notice to make the adjustments.