Artist in Residence

Patti is a teaching artist and drama specialist working in the schools to bring literature to life. This program, operated through the Literacy Services of the Escondido Public Library, is intended to raise reading scores by increasing students interest in the stories they are reading.

Patti has also worked as an artist in residence and "arts coach" for the SUAVE program (Socios Unidos para Arte Via Educacion-United Communities for Arts in Education), a collaborative program of the California Center for the Arts, California State University San Macros, and partner school districts.

SUAVE is a cultural and professional development program for classroom teachers under the guidance of professional, resident artists, such as Patti, learn to use the arts to assist in the teaching of core curriculum subjects.

Using her expertise in the art of storytelling, Patti works with teachers in their classrooms to explore a multitude of ways to enhance students learning. Together, they develop lessons plans using various arts disciplines, especially storytelling and drama, and then partner to present the enhanced lessons in the newly-engaged classroom. The teachers can then use this new approach in other classes and to teach many different subjects. Patti's work helps teach the Visual and Performing Arts Curriculum Standards as well as covers standards from Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies.

Patti is the co-author of Drama and the Culture of California, a series of lessons developed in the Escondido Union School District during the 2001-2002 school year.

Patti also works with teachers throughout Southern California, performing at their schools and classrooms, teaching them storytelling skills and how to integrate storytelling as a way to effectively teach the core curriculum.

Patti is a powerful, energetic, and captivating performer who can engage audiences from kindergarten through college and beyond. Her ability to connect with her audience is wonderfully entertaining and educational. I have her visit my classes at Cal State as often as I can book her.
Merryl Goldberg, Professor of Visual and Performing Arts

Quite a few of my students are fragile, "at risk," limited English, gifted, and full of energy (hyper) so I tend to be very selective as to whom I invite to my classroom. I knew after the first hour that the children in my class were safe with Patti. They connected with her and were inspired by her stories. Patti has a way of seeing where her audience is at, rising to the occasion, and valuing the feedback and interaction that children offer. If I were queen of the world, she would be in my classroom every day.
Ildiko Demeter, 3rd grade teacher, Escondido, CA

Wonderful! I noticed 2 of my terribly shy students smiling quietly participating behind their hands. Students were highly engaged. All answers were accepted and sincerely appreciated. Our story sessions and discussions carried over to other stories as well. Patti was exceptionally engaging. My students eagerly looked forward to her lessons.
Martie Goodbody, 4th grade teacher, Escondido CA

Learn more about Patti

Contact Patti at
patti@pattistory.com
(760) 732-0117