A New Chapter for Arts Education in Acushnet
Two dedicated educators from Albert F. Ford Middle School in Acushnet have been chosen to participate in a prestigious national initiative aimed at enhancing arts education across the United States. Kristine Daniels, an art teacher, and Brian Shanbrun, a music teacher, will join the Connected Arts Networks (CAN) for the 2025-26 school year. This opportunity is part of a broader effort to foster collaboration and professional growth among arts educators nationwide.
What is the Connected Arts Networks (CAN)?
The CAN program, which launched in 2021, is a collaborative project supported by several national associations focused on arts education and the NYC Public Schools Arts Office. The initiative aims to create sustainable models of professional learning through virtual Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). These communities offer educators a platform to share best practices, engage in workshops, and explore innovative teaching methods that benefit students.
Through this network, teachers like Daniels and Shanbrun will attend monthly virtual meetings and workshops outside of regular school hours. They will also have the chance to observe other educators’ classrooms virtually, gaining insights into different approaches to teaching the arts.
Excitement and Enthusiasm from Educators
Daniels and Shanbrun are both eager to embrace this new opportunity. Shanbrun, who has taught band, chorus, and music at Ford Middle School since 2005, expressed his excitement about being part of the CAN network. He emphasized the value of connecting with a broader community of arts educators, stating that it would help him bring new ideas and techniques into his classroom.
Daniels, who has been teaching art at Ford Middle School since 1993, shared her own feelings of honor and excitement. She looks forward to collaborating with other art educators and learning from their experiences. Being part of a national network, she believes, will provide her with fresh perspectives and resources to enhance her teaching.
Benefits of Participation in CAN
Participants in the CAN program will enjoy a range of benefits, including ongoing support, quarterly virtual workshops led by national content experts, and opportunities for professional development. They will also have the chance to contribute to evaluations of the program, sharing insights on how different classroom practices affect student learning.
Shanbrun, who has only been a part of the program for a short time, already feels more connected to the wider world of music education. He is looking forward to implementing new materials and techniques, with the hope that the research and feedback gathered will benefit future generations of teachers and students.
Recognition from School Leadership
Principal Michelle Silvia and Superintendent Paula Bailey have praised Daniels and Shanbrun for their commitment to arts education. Silvia highlighted their dedication and the positive impact they have had on students in Acushnet. Bailey expressed pride in the district’s educators, noting their engagement and continuous growth in teaching methods and leadership skills.
About the Educators
Kristine Daniels has been an art educator in the Acushnet Public Schools since 1993. She graduated from Westfield State University and has since dedicated her career to teaching at Ford Middle School. Daniels earned her National Board Certification in Early Adolescent/Young Adult Art in 1999 and a master’s degree in art education from the Art of Education University in 2023. She also serves as the advisor for the FMS Art Club and is a member of a student-faculty rock band.
Brian Shanbrun has been the band, chorus, and music teacher at Ford Middle School since 2005. A former student of Ford Middle School and Acushnet Elementary School, he is a performing musician who plays the clarinet and saxophone in various ensembles around the state. Shanbrun holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of New Hampshire and a master’s degree in music education from Gordon College.
