Art in Washington

While in Washington DC for the AEP Awards, I took the opportunity to visit the National Galleries of Art. I hadn't been there in years, certainly not since I started with Teacher's Discovery Traveling Exhibits.
As I said, it was 100 degrees in Washington that weekend and I was quite warm by the time I walked the several blocks to the West Gallery. The cool air in the magnificent building provided immediate relief. The feeling of entering this gallery provided a different feeling, more awestruck that I have ever felt entering a museum. I wasn't sure why, I have been to many wonderful museums. But then it dawned on me, this is what we do with Teacher's Discovery Traveling Exhibits, we bring this art to the classrooms, libraries and hearts of the students of the U.S.
Class field trips used to be quite common. Budget cuts and security concerns have made the trips far less common. For many schools and libraries, museums simply are not close enough. We are helping to bring art to you. Maybe not original art, like in the National Gallery, but such a good reproduction, you can see brushstrokes. The enormous size we provide contributes to the experience, so much different than a slide or a poster.
My feeling of awe is probably much like the experience you give your students and guests when you display an exhibit. Suddenly, the art is real, the talent is beyond comprehension and history is before your eyes.
I thought I knew why I have this job. Now I really know.

AEP Awards in Washington DC

It was was weekend of excitement, inspiration, and honor in Washington DC June 6. Teacher's Discovery Traveling Exhibits was a finalist for a Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers. The exhibit was Global Warming, which we are very proud of.
I departed for Washington on Friday morning, honored that we were finalists but really hoping we would win! I was especially excited because I love Washington. I love the city, the monuments and everything it represents. It was 100 degrees outside but once I checked in to the hotel, I headed out on foot for my favorite locations, the White House, the capitol, the Lincoln monument, and the rest.
What a wonderful day. That evening, I arrived at the JW Marriott for the AEP banquet. I met many nice people from our industry. I was humbled to be in the same categories as National Geographic Kids, The Weather Channel, Scholastic, the National Science Teachers Association and so many others. I met many people that face the same challenges as we do, how do we reach today's students? Looking around that evening, I have every confidence that our kid's educations are in good hands, at least with the tools and resources that are and will be available.
When awards were announced, we cheered for each other. I almost forgot why I was there when they announced Teacher's Discovery Traveling Exhibits as the winner in our category.
Couldn't think of a better way to wrap up the evening!
So, along with the many, many letters, calls and emails we receive from teachers and librarians across the country,
we now add the Distinguished Achievement Award to our collection. Your comments mean more, but the plaque is nice!