Program & Project Design
The primary focus of Griffin Center program and project design services is the expansion and improvement of arts and literacy instruction. However, through our network of Griffin Associates, the Center can and does provide design services in other areas of instruction, such as health education.
From standards-based lesson plans and curriculum development in the various arts disciplines, to arts integration, to early language acquisition and Pre-K through Grade 12 literacy development we assist an institution or organization in all aspects of project design and provide 360-degree support during implementation. Avoiding the status quo, we work to assure any new or re-structured projects and programs reflect the uniqueness of the instructional context and appropriately address student needs and learning goals.
Depending on the level of support required, Center consultants lead, or coach a client in leading project planning sessions, help to identify the types of information needed to inform effective decision-making, build the capacity of design team members in thinking through the logic model of implementation and outcomes, assist with the project launch and monitor progress during subsequent phases of rollout.
As reflected in our mission, Griffin Center collaborates with non-profit organizations, public agencies, schools districts and universities on innovative ideas that are supported by sound research. We have the capacity to work with partners at the local, regional and state level.
Some design projects that have received assistance from Center staff are as follows:
Alameda Alliance for Arts Learning Leadership, Hayward, CA
As a provider of on-going technical support, Griffin Center staff provides leadership, guidance and support in design, coordination and implementation of many of the innovative art learning programs offered through the Alameda County Office of Education. One example is the design of a district-wide professional development day for all K-12 teachers around arts integration. Another is the development of an elementary level visual arts program.
Los Angeles County Arts for All Initiative, Los Angeles, CA
As a part of the countywide Arts for All initiative, a Center consultant is collaborating with the Los Angeles County Arts Commission to design and pilot a regional technical support structure for the expansion of quality arts education programming.
Mountain View School District, El Monte, CA
Working in partnership with district teachers during 2008-2009, Senior Director Susan McGreevy-Nichols developed a dance and theatre curriculum that addresses key California Visual and Performing Arts Content Standards and supports literacy development. Subsequently, generalist classroom teachers will be trained to implement the curriculum, K-6.
Paramount Unified School District, Paramount, CA
Senior Director Susan McGreevy-Nichols developed arts integration strategies for classroom teachers to use as a part of their English Language Development (ELD) instruction.
ABC School District, Cerritos, CA
In addition to coaching the development of a district-wide strategic plan, Senior Director Susan McGreevy-Nichols developed a dance, theatre and music curriculum for upper elementary students that address key content and performance standards. Arts specialists were able to implement the program and model lessons for classroom teachers, providing job-embedded professional development.
