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Dear FAEA Family,
Welcome back! Can you believe the new school year is already here? It feels like just yesterday we were wrapping up the spring, and here we are returning to our classrooms and studios again. As an educator, I’ve always loved this time of year: the excitement of new beginnings and the magic of welcoming students back into our creative spaces. Opening the doors to a new school year is a powerful moment of renewal. In the words of Plato, "The beginning is the most important part of the work."
Whether your summer was spent recharging at home, traveling, or spent creating your own artwork, I hope you are stepping into the season with renewed purpose. Every new beginning brings new opportunities to innovate and grow, and FAEA stands ready to support, empower, and celebrate you every step of the way.
In Your Corner as Classes Begin
As you navigate the exciting (and sometimes challenging) first weeks of school, please remember that FAEA is always here to support you:
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Advocacy Support: If you face program reductions, position shifts, or administrative hurdles this fall, please connect directly with our leadership through our Advocacy Assistance Request Form for strategic guidance and resources.
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Your Voice, Your Vote: Your advocacy extends beyond the classroom. Please make plans to vote in the August local primary elections, which include crucial races for local school board seats, as well as the November General Election. Check key dates and details through the Florida Division of Elections.
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Social Media Campaign: FAEA, in partnership with CFAE, is launching a special campaign series: "The Arts Matter. So Does Your Vote." I encourage you to like, follow, and share these posts to help us amplify our message!
Looking Ahead: "The Flamingo Effect"
Have you ever heard of "The Flamingo Effect"? Flamingos thrive, stay vibrant, and maintain their signature bright color because they gather together in a flock to nourish one another. Much like flamingos, art educators can sometimes feel isolated in our individual studios or art rooms, but when we gather as a community, we lift each other up. Coming together at our annual conference is our opportunity to exchange ideas, reconnect, and truly rejuvenate our creative spirits so we can continue to shine brightly for our students.
Registration is now open! The 2026 FAEA Annual Conference will take place on October 15–18, 2026, at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront in downtown St. Petersburg.
As we step across the threshold of a new year, remember that a blank canvas is full of endless possibilities. In the words of Natasha Bedingfield: "Today is where your book begins. The rest is still unwritten."
Thank you for your dedication to Florida’s students and schools. Together we are STRONGER!
Wishing you an inspiring and successful new beginning!
With warm regards,
Christy Garton
President, Florida Art Education Association
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