The Author Village is a community of forward-thinking and award-winning children's book authors and illustrators and educators available for in-person and virtual school visits, library visits, festivals, conferences panels, workshops, professional development, and special events. Many of our authors are currently scheduling both in-person and virtual author visits for the 2024-2025 school year. For in-person visits (up to three presentations, lunch with a small group of students, and book signing), our authors charge between $2000.00 and $7500.00 (plus travel expenses), depending on the author. For full day virtual visits, our authors charge in the $1500.00-$4500.00 range, depending on the author. For individual 45-50 minute sessions, the authors charge between $750.00 and $2000.00, once again, depending on the author.

Unleash your inner scientist in these large, interactive science shows! Nutty Scientists Hudson Valley brings affordable and fun science shows to your school – designed to ignite children’s curiosity and foster an environment where the entire audience feels encouraged to participate. Each show has an imaginative storyline coupled with 6-8 hands-on exciting experiments. With Nutty Scientists, kids get to touch, jump, yell, vibrate, form and test hypotheses. We aim to boost children’s curiosity about science and confidence in themselves! Age: 4-12 Length: 45 minutes Size: Suitable for up to 200 kids, but we do back-to-back performances for more. Prices: $375 for one show or $300/show for 2 or more shows + travel fee (call for info). Funding can be used from BOCES Arts and Education category OR the Exploratory Enrichment category. Shows: Ice Age Show: The kids will help our scientist overcome incredible challenges within the secret forest of Merlin the Wizard by performing exciting experiments. Students will be immersed in a sensory experience surrounding the amazing properties of CO2 and dry ice while exploring states of matter, sublimation, chemical reactions, pressure, forces, and more. Cast Away Show: Help our Nutty Scientist who is lost on a desert island! Kids will help the lost scientist get food, water and signal for rescue. Along the way they'll fire rockets, make slime, shoot smoke rings, and see amazing electrical demonstrations with a Van De Graaff generator! Fun Mission to Space Show: The Nutty Scientists has been entrusted with a maximum-security space mission. What will it take to survive in space? Where in the solar system should we land? To answer these questions students will assist with crazy experiments. They will learn about the planets, gravity, orbits, properties of sound, near-vacuum conditions, atmospheric pressure, and volcanic reactions! Kids will also help make a comet using the same elements that are found in real comets. Ignite Curiosity! Think Nutty!

Slapstick Science shows are REAL science demonstration-lectures; not random acts of science, but true lessons that cover an entire UNIT from an IPS textbook. All programs were written by and are presented by Ted Lawrence (a.k.a. Dr. Quinton Quark who has been visiting elementary schools since 1992)– they are spectacular and funny shows, but while each lecture is jam-packed with the most memorable science demos, they teach basic principles and concepts intended to make kids realize that science is fun and embrace pursuit of "hard" science. All Slapstick Science shows start with a lesson plan written by a certified high school chemistry, physics, and math teacher (Ted Lawrence) and are presented by a gifted teacher with a knack for thrilling an audience (also, Ted Lawrence). “Much Work with Little Effort” teaches about Kinetic Energy, Potential Energy, Friction, and Simple Machines. “The Notion of Motion” teaches Newton’s Laws of Motion – Inertia, Force and Acceleration, Action & Reaction – as well as the use of a hypothesis and units. “Flight” teaches K – 8th graders how an airplane flies and uses the audience to show off genuine Madgeburg spheres, the Bournelli Effect, and the classic “Guinea and Shuttlecock” demonstration that establish the foundation for understanding how air has pressure and is strong enough to lift heavy airplanes. “Kiddie Chem” teaches about solids, liquids, gases, and chemical reactions using exotic chemicals for K -2, and “Combustion” is a spectacular chemistry lecture teaching basic fire safety that EVERYBODY should know before cooking dinner on a stove top or lighting a backyard grill. Circus skills and humor abound, but the lessons-including “Science is FUN”-are what’s important. Guaranteed to excite even the most science-phobic students (and teachers) as evidenced by a 30+ year-long experience hearing "that was the best assembly" frequently after each school visit.

GET OUT + PLAY TOUR BMX School Assembly programs by Dialed Action Sports In a world dominated by screens and gadgets, we believe in the power of the great outdoors, exercise, and the sheer exhilaration that comes from pedaling your way to freedom. Dialed Action’s Get Out + Play Programs are on a mission to encourage youth across the nation to put down their phones and screens, get outdoors, and discover the excitement of play. 15 years in business and over 10,000 thrilling shows to date! Hosting a show is easy! We provide everything needed to put on a great event. This includes: all setup and tear-down, all PA and mic equipment, power source, floor protection for indoor shows, flexible rain-date options, and full insurance coverage. Multiple show formats also ensure we have the right program for your venue layout and budget. Available program topics: We can customize our messaging to align with the unique needs of your school or program goals. Available topics include: ANTI-BULLYING, DRUG AWARENESS, RESPONSIBLE CHOICES, or BIKE SAFETY. Need help with funding? Many 501c3 organizations are able to receive funding for our programs. Contact us today and ask about our grant application toolkit. Contact us today to reserve your spot on this year's GET OUT + PLAY TOUR.

Broadway Utica has a uniquely designed program called UticaWorx. This is an inclusive performing arts program established in 2023, created to welcome participants of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Offering everything from summer camps to specialized workshops led by professional actors, choreographers, vocalists, and motivational speakers, the program provides immersive, skill-building experiences that nurture passion and creativity. With a faculty of experienced industry professionals and a rich curriculum, UticaWorx inspires participants to grow, whether they’re pursuing a future in the arts or simply exploring a creative outlet.

For over 20 years, Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra have been visiting schools, ranging from elementary to universities, performing on and demonstrating Afro-Caribbean instruments, roots and rhythms. They have provided a comprehensive and student tailored lecture/demo/hands-on program that has proven extremely successful and well received at the schools. These "assemblies" consist of three components. First the lecture component which provides knowledge, insight and answers the who, what, where and when. The second component is the demo. During the demo component the orchestra performs the Afro-Caribbean rhythms such as salsa, cha-cha & merengue. The third component is the "hands-on" component which is everyone's favorite part. Students are invited up on stage to perform a few bars of music with the musicians and become part of the band! The students realize many aspects of the music including that many of the Afro-Caribbean percussion instruments play an integral part in the music and also gain a sense of respect for the instruments and the performers. The orchestra has performed Arts In Education in over 100 schools, colleges and universities. For more information on our program, please call (518) 330-6917.

*TOP RATED INTERACTIVE CULTURAL ARTS PROGRAM* We are Path To Rhythm, and we provide a highly interactive and professionally directed Group Drumming and Dance Program for your students. We consistently get 100% engagement with all participants throughout the duration of our program. Our unique program, "A Day of Drum & Dance" has become very popular with the schools we have worked with for several years. We take pride in offering "Grade specific assemblies". It is common that if it is our first time working with a school, after our session a teacher will express to us that it is the best assembly that they have ever had at their school. Our program is unique in that we consistently get 100% engagement with each of the grades that we work with. Because we work with only one grade at a time, all students are hands-on active throughout their session with us and participate in both drumming and dancing. My co-facilitator, Yahya Kamate, has an incredible positive and infectious energy that the students love. Not only does he share about the culture that he originates from in West Africa, but the two of us working together is a model for cultural diversity. As the Founder of Path To Rhythm, I bring my many years of teaching and performing experience to help ensure a highly managed and accountable environment that sets a tone of respect, fun and learning during our programs. DAY OF DRUM & DANCE - (Available for single days or multiple days and residency) Path To Rhythm provides educational and interactive group drumming programs for schools. We bring authentic African hand drums called Djembes to your location and lead interactive, 45 -minute sessions of drumming for groups of 25-90 participants. Each session is led by two teaching artist facilitators. Half of the group of students drum while the other half learns a short dance, after the dance is performed the groups switch parts. Each student learns the benefit of drumming and being of service to the dancers. The group works together and has high energy fun in the process! Path To Rhythm is suited for all age groups and grade levels of children and young adults. This program will create a buzz and excitement that will be the talk of the school for days following our visit. Students will be inspired and feel a new sense of community and school spirit, all while learning Cultural Rhythms. We are educators and professional performers, we commit to provide excellent management to ensure that each group reaches its fullest potential. Path To Rhythm will provide full size Djembe (hand) drums for all participants. Each student will have their own drum to play, all of the drums are alike. Benefits: -Aligns with NYS Learning Standards -Exposes children to music making and dance of other cultures -Promotes self regulation -Creates a sense of community & connection. -Honors and celebrates students, teachers and admin. -Encourages creative expression. -Impact! Creates excitement that can be felt throughout the day. -Releases energy. -Interactive hands-on FUN. Requirements: Use of the full gymnasium or large indoor space for the day. Chairs for participants to sit in while they drum. Access to the space to set up at least one hour before start time. PLEASE SEE OUR VIDEO: https://youtu.be/vwTX9wP7Fc Please contact Adam (adam@pathtorhythm.com) with any questions. We look forward to collaborating with you! Recent testimonials: "We feel incredibly fortunate to have Path to Rhythm visit and do a full week residency at Dows Lane School. Their visit was not only a deeply enriching experience, but also a testament to the power of music and movement to bring out the best in every child. From the moment Adam Issadore and Yahya Kamate arrived, they created an atmosphere where every student felt valued, supported, and capable of achieving something remarkable. In a short amount of time, our young learners were able to master rhythms on the djembe; participate in lively, storytelling dance movements; and connect with each other in ways that we never imagined. Even the youngest students in kindergarten were able to grasp complex rhythms and movements, feeling a deep sense of pride in what they had learned. What made this experience even more impactful was how Adam and Yahya adapted their teaching to meet the varied needs and interests of our students. Whether it was a student who needed more time to practice a rhythm or one who was eager to challenge themself further, Adam and Yahya knew just how to offer personalized guidance. It was evident that their instruction went deeper than just teaching—they were truly connecting with the individual needs and learning styles of our students, making every lesson feel accessible, fun and new. We are so grateful to Adam and Yahya for bringing Path to Rhythm to Dows Lane. This experience has made a lasting impact on our students, and we know they will carry the lessons they learned—about rhythm, movement, culture, and most importantly, the joy of learning—into the future. -William Rich, Dows Lane Elementary, Irvington, NY "Path To Rhythm was an incredible experience for every student, teacher, staff member, and administrator. With authentic African hand drums called Djembes in our hands and the power of music in our souls, we engaged in a unique program that reached every child. The students were divided into two groups: one half drummed while the other half learned a short dance. After performing the dance, they switched roles. The energy was buzzing, smiles were endless, and our school community connected in a profound way. As we learned about African culture and experienced the dances of traditional stories, it became clear that this program is a must-have every year!" -Dan Salerno, Asst. Principal, Searingtown Elementary, NY

Emmy Award winning illustrator, author, and television star of PBS’s 1980’s children’s television series “The Secret City With Commander Mark!” And in the 1990’s “The Imagination Station!” – now on Amazon Prime Video! – Mark Kistler, presents Dare To Draw, an outstanding school assembly for grades K-12. Prepare your students to blast-off to the land of imagination with the power of a pencil! This unforgettable, 100% hands-on assembly encourages students of all ages to participate by stretching their imaginations in adding depth and perspective to their drawings. Mark Kistler will inspire your students to “Dream It! Draw It! Do It!” in harnessing the power of their imagination to make their life dreams come true. Students only need a pencil, a piece of paper, and a smiling positive attitude ready to learn how to draw in 3-D!

After retiring from teaching at the elementary level for 25 years, I decided I still wanted to teach. So, my love for nature and children led me in the direction of writing fictional animal based stories based on facts. I offer school wide readings, as well as class presentations. Depending on the program requested, I also offer activities (crafts and games) as well as some science based videos to aid in the presentation. Book signings are always provided for books purchased before or during the special book talk day. Books are: The Flamingo With Two Left Feet Amari’s BIG Surprise…It’s NOT Monkey Bread! We Can...and We Do!

Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo offers many different learning opportunities for all ages and abilities. We can travel to your location within a one-hour radius of the zoo. We can do virtual learning for anyone, anywhere! Onsite at the zoo we offer guided tours, project-based learning projects, professional development for teachers to learn more ways to use the zoo as a living classroom, self-guided educational opportunities, Pre-K literacy series, STEM challenges and immersive classroom experiences. Choose from one of our topics or we can customize a program specifically for your needs.

Portfolio Project Grades: 4 -12 Description: The Portfolio Project is an initiative of NYSATA (New York State Art Teachers Association) that was developed in cooperation with the New York State Education Department. It is an authentic assessment tool that is based on The New York State Learning Standards and provides students with an opportunity to present portfolios of their work at regional adjudication sites. The student portfolios provide evidence of understanding and student learning in the visual arts. Feedback is available for the student, parent, school, and community. The Portfolio Project can provide an authentic source for data on student success in the visual arts. Cost: $15 per student EXAMPLE of an approved BOCES Arts in Ed project: https://sites.google.com/btboces.org/classroom-enrichment-resources/arts-in-education/nysata Student Portfolio requirements vary by grade level: Elementary Level Portfolio (Grades 4-6) · Artist’s Statement · Selection 1 Self-Portrait · Selection 2a Resource-Based Artwork · Selection 2b Resource-Based Artwork · Reflection Written Statement · Selection 3 Student Choice Artwork · Selection 4 Student Choice Artwork · Selection 5 Student Choice Artwork · Component 6 Student Portfolio Presentation Middle Level Portfolio (Grades 7-8) · Artist’s Statement · Selection 1 Self-Portrait · Selection 2a Resource-Based Artwork · Selection 2b Resource-Based Artwork · Reflection Written Statement · Selection 3 Art from Observation · Selection 4 Student Choice Artwork · Selection 5 Student Choice Artwork · Component 6 Student Portfolio Presentation Commencement Level Portfolio (Grade 9 or intro level students) · Artist’s Statement · Selection 1 Self-Portrait · Selection 2a Resource-Based Artwork · Selection 2b Resource-Based Artwork · Reflection Written Statement · Selection 3 Art from Observation · Selection 4 Process Piece · Selection 5 Student Choice Artwork · Selection 6 Student Choice Artwork · Component 7 Student Portfolio Presentation Elective Level Portfolio (Grades 10-12) · Artist’s Statement · Selection 1 Self-Portrait · Selection 2a Resource-Based Artwork · Selection 2b Resource-Based Artwork · Reflection Written Statement · Selection 3 Art from Observation · Selection 4 Process Piece · Selection 5 Exploratory Artwork · Selection 6 Exploratory Artwork · Selection 7 Exploratory Artwork · Component 8 Student Portfolio Presentation Major Sequence Level (Grades 11-12) · Artist’s Statement · Selection 1 Self-Portrait · Selection 2a Resource-Based Artwork · Selection 2b Resource-Based Artwork · Reflection Written Statement · Selection 3 Art from Observation · Selection 4 Process Piece · Selection 5 Focused Artwork · Selection 6 Focused Artwork · Selection 7 Focused Artwork · Selection 8 Focused Artwork · Component 9 Student Portfolio Presentation This program supports the following NYS Learning Standards: Visual Arts — Creating: · Investigate, Plan, Make (generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work) · Investigate, Consider, Respect, Make (organize and develop artistic ideas and work) · Reflect, Refine, Continue (refine and complete artistic ideas and work) Visual Arts — Presenting · Select, Preserve ( analyze, interpret and select artistic work for presentation) · Curate (develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation) · Share, Relate (convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work) Visual Arts — Responding · Perceive, Analyze (perceive and analyze artistic work) · Interpret (interpret intent and meaning in artistic work) · Evaluate (apply criteria to evaluate artistic work) Visual Arts — Connecting · Synthesize (synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art) · Interrelate, Extend (relate artistic ideas &works w/ societal, cultural, & historical context) Categories: Art

Fun With Energy The science of energy is as fun as it gets! Jeff Boyer shows kids that energy is what makes our world work, through carefully laid out activities illustrating the laws and forces which govern the world around us. Jeff takes audiences on an exciting energy filled ride they’ll always remember. He brings kids right up on stage for interactive demonstrations that entertain and amaze! See also Fun With Energy Curriculum Guides Available Fun With Energy Media Kit Available