Branches Atelier Preschool/Toddler Teacher Position 

Branches Atelier is an innovative, dynamic preschool with a home-like quality, nestled in a beautiful campus in Culver City, California. We are looking for an energetic, passionate, creative, warm, friendly, nurturing and self-motivated teacher to join our Reggio inspired learning community.

Prospective applicants should have a BA in ECE or related field, strong child development background, and at least two years of early childhood experience. We are willing to consider a teacher who holds their teacher permit with 3 to 5 years experience.

Salary & Benefits: $17 – $22 per hour, based on education and experience

Start Date: Possibly last week of June 2016, or no later than September 2016

All applicants must have:

  • A passion for teaching and life long learning.
  • An interest in learning Branches philosophy and values.
  • A commitment to developing a strong and dynamic learning community for children and parents.
  • Knowledge and experience with social constructivism and the Reggio approach.
  • An interest in using creative materials with young children.
  • Strong collaborative and communication skills.
  • Openness for feedback and self-reflection.
  • Great writing skills.
  • A commitment to professional development.
  • An innovative, creative and open mind.
  • A genuine passion and commitment to quality education for children.
  • Computer literate using Mac computers and software.
  • Availability to work approximately 30 to 38 hours/week.

If you are interested in this position, please proceed by submitting the following materials:

 Visit our website at www.branchesatelier.com so you can learn about our school. Write a cover letter that explains why you are interested in working with us, why you became a teacher, what kind of person you are, what are your interests and what brings you joy.

Along with your cover letter please email your resume to: patricia@branchesatelier.com

WE WILL NOT REPLY TO INCOMPLETE SUBMISSIONS.

If you are interested in this position, please proceed by submitting the following materials:

 Visit our website at www.branchesatelier.com so you can learn about our school. Write a cover letter that explains why you are interested in working with us, why you became a teacher, what kind of person you are, what are your interests and what brings you joy.

Along with your cover letter please email your resume to: patricia@branchesatelier.com

WE WILL NOT REPLY TO INCOMPLETE SUBMISSIONS.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Branches Atelier Summer Spring Workshop Series Video

Click on the image to view the video
Screen Shot 2016-03-01 at 10.57.50 PM

https://vimeo.com/157395090

Click here for flyer.      Click here for the registration form.      Click here to preregister.

Please feel free to share this with your friends and colleagues.

Posted in Uncategorized, Workshops | Leave a comment

Tricia’s Children’s Holiday Gift Guide for Parents, Family and Friends

Hi Everyone,

Here are some great gift ideas that your children might like for Hanukah or Christmas. I have chosen gifts that encourage creativity, imagination and problem solving.All gifts have been tried and tested by Branches children and have proven the test of time. Please feel free to pass on to family and friends.

Warmest Regards,

Tricia


Liquid watercolors   Tropical colors   $30.90

http://www.discountschoolsupply.com/Product/ProductDetail.aspx?Product=2791


Loew-Cornell Assorted Dry Pan Watercolor Paint Cakes, 24-Pack $8.95

http://www.amazon.com/Loew-Cornell-Assorted-Watercolor-Paint-24-Pack/dp/B0019IKY58/ref=sr_1_10?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1449016332&sr=1-10&keywords=watercolor+paint


Water Color Pad $6.29

http://www.amazon.com/Strathmore-11-Inch-15-Inch-Watercolor-12-Sheet/dp/B000KNLQIM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449015532&sr=8-1&keywords=watercolor+pad+11×15


Water Color Brushes $8.88

http://www.amazon.com/Outop-Watercolor-Acrylic-Painting-Supplies/dp/B00PXMYA1A/ref=sr_1_7?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1449015613&sr=1-7&keywords=watercolor+brushes


Oil Pastels $6.69

http://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Arts-Pastels-Color-PHN-50/dp/B0026SUCDE/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1449015692&sr=1-1&keywords=oil+pastels


Lyra colored Pencils $39.96

http://www.amazon.com/Pentel-Arts-Pastels-Color-PHN-50/dp/B0026SUCDE/ref=sr_1_1?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1449015692&sr=1-1&keywords=oil+pastels


Stockmar crayon blocks or sticks $29.89

http://www.magiccabin.com/stockmarand174;-premium-quality-beeswax-blocks-set-of-16-in-sticks.htm


Drawing pad $18.49

http://www.amazon.com/Strathmore-400-Sketch-Pads-12/dp/B0027A39PY/ref=sr_1_2?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1449016253&sr=1-2&keywords=drawing+pad


Memory games $15.98

http://www.magiccabin.com/memory-game.htm


Citi Blocks $29.00

http://www.amazon.com/CitiBlocs-200-Piece-Natural-Colored-Building-Blocks/dp/B003BWVJ72


Set of 7 Play Silks     7-Piece Sets come in Pastels (lavender, sky, mint, yellow, salmon, pink and white); or Brights ( violet, blue, green, gold, orange, rose and red). $69.98

http://www.magiccabin.com/play-silks.htm


Tea Set and picnic basket $36.66

http://www.amazon.com/Delton-Large-Dollies-Basket-Sprinkles/dp/B0039JFPSQ/ref=sr_1_14?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1449012759&sr=1-14&keywords=tea+set


Skuut Balance Bike $69.73

http://www.amazon.com/Diggin-Active-Skuut-Wooden-Balance/dp/B00264GIFY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449013530&sr=8-1&keywords=skuut


Play Kitchen with dish set $150

http://www.magiccabin.com/deluxe-kitchen-special.htm


Picnic Basket $54.86

http://www.magiccabin.com/picnic-play-set.htm


Dr play kit $28.89

http://www.magiccabin.com/8-piece-wooden-pretend-play-doctors-kit-with-storage-case.htm


Play stand and arch $249

http://www.magiccabin.com/play-stand.htm


Grimm wooden rainbow stacker $84.94

http://www.amazon.com/Grimms-Extra-12-Piece-Rainbow-Stacker/dp/B0089VP95S/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1449014762&sr=1-2&keywords=grimms+wooden+toys


Four Elements Wooden Building Set (Large Size) $135.00

http://www.littlespruceorganics.com/four-elements-wooden-building-set-large-size/


Four Elements Wooden Building Set (Small Size) $79.95

http://www.littlespruceorganics.com/four-elements-wooden-building-set-small-size/


Farm animals dominos $10.30

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003X3YGRE/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687742&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B001E87D1Q&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0RT7HBWB6J08Z02765J3


Balancing Boat Game $19.95

http://thewoodenwagon.com/woodentoy/GPT5136.html


Wooden fruits and veggies $17.49

http://www.amazon.com/Assorted-Fruits-Vegetables-Solid-Version/dp/B000I8UK04/ref=sr_1_3?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1449014978&sr=1-3&keywords=plan+toys


Black Magna-tiles $49.99

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B013JZM4KQ/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=86525743512&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14481159968448660669&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_4ackb81xuj_e


Colored Magna-tiles 48 pieces  $74.49

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0093LSWIE/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687602&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B013JZM4KQ&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1CH6N45388PM4N0DYQE3


Grimm’s Large Four Elements Building Set, Wooden Blocks with Storage Tray

$184.95

http://www.amazon.com/Grimms-Elements-Building-Wooden-Storage/dp/B004T86DKK/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1449018271&sr=8-10&keywords=grimm+blocks


Automoblox Mini Emergency Playset Cars $39.99

http://www.amazon.com/Automoblox-Mini-Emergency-Playset-3-Pack/dp/B00NR6AG6W/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1449018597&sr=8-3&keywords=Mini+Emergency+cars


Automoblox Mini S9-R/C9-R/C9-S Vehicle (3-Pack), Burnt Orange/Silver Blue/Black Red

http://www.amazon.com/Automoblox-Vehicle-3-Pack-Orange-Silver/dp/B00D9Q23LG/ref=pd_sim_21_2?ie=UTF8&dpID=31OkeftLArL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=054JZPN1A3T26FTNZCGG


Remo Kids Percussion, Floor Tom, 10 Diameter with Mallet,

Rain Forest Fabric $33.99

http://www.amazon.com/Remo-Percussion-Diameter-Mallet-Forest/dp/B0002F7KUG/ref=pd_sim_267_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=51t2ywL%2BdyL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=07VA7XX24RAGF19RHCSN


Remo RHYTHM CLUB, Tambourine, 1.75 x 6, 4 Sets Jingles, Rhythm Kids Graphics $14.95

http://www.amazon.com/Remo-RHYTHM-Tambourine-Jingles-Graphics/dp/B0002NP4OW/ref=pd_sim_267_4?ie=UTF8&dpID=51JjeFakHrL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR156%2C160_&refRID=14G79P9X1Q80BREJN7C8


Hape – Early Melodies – Mighty Band $39.95

http://www.amazon.com/Hape-Early-Melodies-Mighty-Band/dp/B00CBO513O/ref=pd_sim_sbs_21_5?ie=UTF8&dpID=51%2BW%2BPzbOQL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=0DV6PEYKY6BP397T4E4V


Eeboo Life on Earth Matching Game $15.95

http://www.amazon.com/Eeboo-Life-Earth-Matching-Game/dp/B000ELV3ZG/ref=pd_sim_21_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=51lcNGSgvTL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=0DSR4934QN30VW9Q2EGE


eeBoo I Never Forget a Face Matching Game $15.95

http://www.amazon.com/eeBoo-Never-Forget-Face-Matching/dp/B000ELQUZO/ref=pd_sim_21_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=61DIRcPDAEL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR155%2C160_&refRID=1MJ0F1HT8GCEQS5E9FPX


Educational Insights The Sneaky, Snacky Squirrel Game $16.00

http://www.amazon.com/Educational-Insights-Sneaky-Snacky-Squirrel/dp/B00486ZVC4/ref=sr_1_5?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1449167723&sr=1-5&keywords=toddler+games


Peaceable Kingdom / Feed the Woozle Award Winning Preschool Skills Builder Game $24.44

http://www.amazon.com/Peaceable-Kingdom-Winning-Preschool-Builder/dp/B00L3DQ1B0/ref=pd_bxgy_21_img_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=13MWHX562F14BTQEAJ5N


Educational Insights Shelby’s Snack Shack Game $13.79

http://www.amazon.com/Educational-Insights-Shelbys-Snack-Shack/dp/B00ATWSRG8/ref=pd_sim_21_5?ie=UTF8&dpID=61IrOWDmJRL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=13MWHX562F14BTQEAJ5N


Rubens Barn Baby Dolls Collection Boy or girl dolls anatomically correct $59.98

http://www.amazon.com/Rubens-Barn-Dolls-Collection-Molly/dp/B004BH536O/ref=sr_1_53?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1449168403&sr=1-53&keywords=anatomically+correct+baby+dolls


New! Moover® Wooden Tow Truck $129.00

http://www.magiccabin.com/mooverandreg;-wooden-tow-truck.htm


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The Third Place Educator’s Workshop

The Environment as the Third Teacher   

Presented by: Patricia Hunter McGrath  – Executive Director of Branches Atelier 

When: Saturday, November 14th  8:30am – 12:30pm

Where: The Third Place- Ventana School – Christ Episcopal Church – Graham Hall  – 1040 Border Road, Los Altos, CA

12:30 1:30 Open Classrooms – Tour Ventana School classrooms and see the beautiful Reggio environments and project based learning. 

Join Reggio Educator and Atelierista, Patricia Hunter McGrath, for a fun and playful morning learning about the different elements of a Reggio inspired, project-based, environment.  She will cover the following:

  • How does the environment support individual and group experiences?
  • How can the function of an atelier be incorporated into the classroom?
  • What are the organizational considerations?
  • How are materials introduced into the classroom?
  • How do the materials we fill our classrooms with and the curriculum we follow support our children?
  • How can our environment be a source for inspiration, creativity and long-term projects?

Patricia Hunter McGrath is the Executive  Director/Atelierista of  Branches Atelier in Culver City, California.  Patricia has taught the Reggio Emilia Class at Santa Monica College and at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia.  She is a frequent presenter at Reggio conferences throughout the United States and abroad and has visited Reggio Emilia, Italy six times.  She is also a contributing author of the book In the Spirit of the Atelier  published by Davis Press and Insights and Inspiration from Reggio Emilia also published by Davis Press.

Agenda:

8:30 – 9:00am – Continental Breakfast, coffee and tea

9:00 – 12:00pm – Environments Workshop

12:00 – 12:30pm – Lunch provided

12:30 – 1:30pm – Tour of Ventana Environments

Ticket Sales:   Tickets are limited to 30 participants!

For ticket sales: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-environment-as-the-third-teacher-tickets-19334036624 

$65 advanced purchase,  $80 at the door

Questions? Please contact Andrea Campanella

650 – 948 – 2121 at Ventana School 


 

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Branches Atelier Preschool / Toddler Teacher Position

Branches Atelier Preschool/Toddler Teacher Position 

Branches Atelier is an innovative, dynamic preschool with a home-like quality, nestled in a beautiful campus in Culver City, California. We are looking for an energetic, passionate, creative, warm, friendly, nurturing and self-motivated teacher to join our Reggio inspired learning community.

Prospective applicants should have a BA in ECE or related field, strong child development background, and at least two years of early childhood experience. We are willing to consider a teacher who holds their teacher permit with 3 to 5 years experience.

Salary & Benefits: $17 – $22 per hour, based on education and experience

Start Date: Immediate opening November 2015

All applicants must have:

  • A passion for teaching and life long learning.
  • An interest in learning Branches philosophy and values.
  • A commitment to developing a strong and dynamic learning community for children and parents.
  • Knowledge and experience with social constructivism and the Reggio approach.
  • An interest in using creative materials with young children.
  • Strong collaborative and communication skills.
  • Openness for feedback and self-reflection.
  • Great writing skills.
  • A commitment to professional development.
  • An innovative, creative and open mind.
  • A genuine passion and commitment to quality education for children.
  • Computer literate using Mac computers and software.
  • Availability to work approximately 30 to 38 hours/week.

If you are interested in this position, please proceed by submitting the following materials:

Visit our website at www.branchesatelier.com so you can learn about our school. Write a cover letter that explains why you are interested in working with us, why you became a teacher, what kind of person you are, what are your interests and what brings you joy.

Along with your cover letter please email your resume to: patricia@branchesatelier.com Incomplete submissions will be deleted.

Posted in Job Listing | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Developing Your School’s Values that will Enrich its Culture August 26-27, 2015

Two-Day Intensive for Administrators, Support Staff and Teachers on Developing Your School’s Values that will Enrich its Culture.

August 26-27, 2015 in Montecito, California at Casa de Maria retreat center.

  • How can you build a strong school with clearly defined values unique to your cultural setting?
  • Are your values built into your curriculum, staff development and decision-making process?
  • Are your school values in alignment or in conflict with your own?
  • Are you working from your values or buried under the work of the day and find yourself making quick decisions rather than reflective ones?
  • With constant turn over in staff, parents and children do you worry about how you can build continuity year after year?

Your core values can be used to guide, deepen and support the culture of your school. These values can be integrated throughout the school and written into the foundation of your program.

Please join us for an Evolutionary Education workshop led by Director of Branches Atelier, Patricia Hunter-McGrath, along with Matt Auron and Geoff Graber of Evolution.

This training works through three dimensions: the individual; the team/organization; and the operational systems and structures. By aligning all dimensions, a holistic framework is formed that supports the development and actualization of your school’s unique offering for children, families, and teachers.

The two-day workshop includes storytelling, group dialog and creative experiences through materials while exploring and developing relationships with team members and peers. While we encourage entire admin teams to attend, the workshop is also suited for individuals.

Key program elements include:

  • Development of individual and school values
  • Emotional and social intelligence
  • Creating a purposeful, values-driven program
  • Communication and conflict management skills
  • Effective team leadership processes
  • Creating a dynamic and supportive culture for development
  • Effective staff development and management processes
  • Understanding organizational management processes

Bios:

Patricia Hunter McGrath is the Executive Director/Atelierista of Branches Atelier in Culver City, California. Over the past 15 years she has developed an innovated early childhood program inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. From 2005 to 2007 Patricia developed the role of the Atelierista at Bold Park Community School in Perth, Australia. From 1998 to 2005 she was the Atelierista at Evergreen Community School where she developed a unique approach to children’s symbolic languages. Using clay, wire, paint, dance, etc. children enter into relationship with the materials and express, clarify and modify their ideas and theories. She also taught at the Growing Place in Santa Monica for 7 years. Patricia is an artist and has over 20 years experience in Early Childhood Education. Patricia has taught the Reggio Emilia Class at Santa Monica College and at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia.

Patricia graduated with a Master’s degree in Human development from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California. She also speaks at conferences throughout the United States and abroad and has visited Reggio Emilia, Italy six times. She is also a contributing author of the book In the Spirit of the Atelier published by Davis Press and Insights and Inspiration from Reggio Emilia also published by Davis Press.

Matt Auron is a dynamic presenter, coach and thought leader in the field of human and organization development. Matt leads the development and delivery of Evolution’s cutting edge coaching, culture and leadership development practices.

Matt formerly worked with DaVita HealthCare Partners, a highly progressive and culture-focused Fortune 500 healthcare company as Senior Director and Global Lead on their Wisdom Team. There, Matt served as the steward for the culture globally, developing leaders, and facilitating change through coaching, facilitation, and training. Matt’s team was awarded Training magazine’s “Top 125” award for the five years he helped lead it.

Prior to DaVita, Matt worked as an Organizational Effectiveness Consultant at the ground-breaking Los Angeles Universal Preschool (LAUP), which coaches and supports early childhood education across Los Angeles County. Prior to LAUP, Matt worked with a variety of boutique consultants and designed and began delivering his own coaching model based on the work of Ken Wilber and Integral Theory.

Matt has been trained and mentored by luminaries in the field of organization development such as Peter Block, Chris Worley and Edie and Charles Seashore. And is trained and certified in a variety of leadership assessments.

As an author, Matt has published articles in both academic, peer-reviewed journals as well as trade magazines such as Training and Development. He has been a regular presenter at the Organization Development Network annual conference. Matt holds a Master’s degree in Organization Development (MSOD) from Pepperdine University where his thesis research was focused on building trust in groups.

Geoff Graber: As a coach and thought partner for CEOs, Geoff combines his 20-plus year career as an entrepreneur and executive with a passion for supporting others in life, leadership and business. He founded Evolution to support extraordinary leaders and organizations fulfill their potential as world-enriching entities.

Geoff started his career in coaching and leadership consulting in 2006 with Axialent, where he received hands-on training and mentorship from some of the world’s top coaches, including founder, Fred Kofman, author of “Conscious Business”” and organizational culture guru, Carolyn Taylor, author of “Walking the Talk.”  He left Axialent two years later to start an enterprise coaching software firm, Scout OnDemand. Scout, which won awards as a top HR software product, is currently deployed at a number of Fortune 500 corporations, including Intel, Whirlpool, and Pfizer. Scout was acquired by leading enterprise coaching provider, CoachSource.

Prior to moving to coaching, Geoff launched and led a number of technology businesses. He launched the first video games company in China with Electronic Arts (EA), and led Yahoo! Games to become the world’s largest games website. In addition to Scout and Evolution, Geoff has founded and led two other businesses—Muse Corporation (a 3D social media software platform); and IQI Accessories (a maker of innovative laptop accessories)—and served as the CEO for another venture-backed startup. Geoff began his career in finance, first at the venture capital and private equity arm of Bank of America and later at IDG Capital Partners, the first VC in China.

Geoff graduated with honors from UCLA in East Asian Studies and Business. He has also studied in Taiwan, at the East-West Center at University of Hawaii, and at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Logistics:

  • August 26-27, 2015 in Montecito, California at Casa de Maria retreat center. Starts August 26 at 10am, with arrivals beginning at 9am. Ends August 27 at 1pm.
  • $650 for singles; $600 for doubles; $550 for triples (Price includes lodging and four meals)
  • Suitable for individuals or teams, space limited to 36 people.
  • For questions about logistics, please contact Shelley Lozdon at Shelley@evo-lu-tion.com
  • For program questions, please contact Patricia Hunter-McGrath at Patricia@branchesatelier.com or Geoff Graber at Geoff@evo-lu-tion.com

Payment:

  • Your place is held with full payment. Fees are non-refundable but are transferrable if necessary.
  • Payment can be made by check or PayPal. Please make checks to:

Evolution Service Corp.

4265 Mildred Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90066

Or Send PayPal payment to shelley@evo-lu-tion.com

Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment

Developing Your School’s Values that will Enrich its Culture

Two-Day Intensive for Administrators, Support Staff and Teachers on Developing Your School’s Values that will Enrich its Culture.

  • How can you build a strong school with clearly defined values unique to your cultural setting?
  • Are your values built into your curriculum, staff development and decision-making process?
  • Are your school values in alignment or in conflict with your own?
  • Are you working from your values or buried under the work of the day and find yourself making quick decisions rather than reflective ones?
  • With constant turn over in staff, parents and children do you worry about how you can build continuity year after year?

Your core values can be used to guide, deepen and support the culture of your school. These values can be integrated throughout the school and written into the foundation of your program.

Please join us for an Evolutionary Education workshop led by Director of Branches Atelier, Patricia Hunter-McGrath, along with Matt Auron and Geoff Graber of Evolution.

This training works through three dimensions: the individual; the team/organization; and the operational systems and structures. By aligning all dimensions, a holistic framework is formed that supports the development and actualization of your school’s unique offering for children, families, and teachers.

The two-day workshop includes storytelling, group dialog and creative experiences through materials while exploring and developing relationships with team members and peers. While we encourage entire admin teams to attend, the workshop is also suited for individuals.

Key program elements include:

  • Development of individual and school values
  • Emotional and social intelligence
  • Creating a purposeful, values-driven program
  • Communication and conflict management skills
  • Effective team leadership processes
  • Creating a dynamic and supportive culture for development
  • Effective staff development and management processes
  • Understanding organizational management processes

Bios:

Patricia Hunter McGrath is the Executive Director/Atelierista of Branches Atelier in Culver City, California. Over the past 15 years she has developed an innovated early childhood program inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. From 2005 to 2007 Patricia developed the role of the Atelierista at Bold Park Community School in Perth, Australia. From 1998 to 2005 she was the Atelierista at Evergreen Community School where she developed a unique approach to children’s symbolic languages. Using clay, wire, paint, dance, etc. children enter into relationship with the materials and express, clarify and modify their ideas and theories. She also taught at the Growing Place in Santa Monica for 7 years. Patricia is an artist and has over 20 years experience in Early Childhood Education. Patricia has taught the Reggio Emilia Class at Santa Monica College and at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia.

Patricia graduated with a Master’s degree in Human development from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California. She also speaks at conferences throughout the United States and abroad and has visited Reggio Emilia, Italy six times. She is also a contributing author of the book In the Spirit of the Atelier published by Davis Press and Insights and Inspiration from Reggio Emilia also published by Davis Press.

Matt Auron is a dynamic presenter, coach and thought leader in the field of human and organization development. Matt leads the development and delivery of Evolution’s cutting edge coaching, culture and leadership development practices.

Matt formerly worked with DaVita HealthCare Partners, a highly progressive and culture-focused Fortune 500 healthcare company as Senior Director and Global Lead on their Wisdom Team. There, Matt served as the steward for the culture globally, developing leaders, and facilitating change through coaching, facilitation, and training. Matt’s team was awarded Training magazine’s “Top 125” award for the five years he helped lead it.

Prior to DaVita, Matt worked as an Organizational Effectiveness Consultant at the ground-breaking Los Angeles Universal Preschool (LAUP), which coaches and supports early childhood education across Los Angeles County. Prior to LAUP, Matt worked with a variety of boutique consultants and designed and began delivering his own coaching model based on the work of Ken Wilber and Integral Theory.

Matt has been trained and mentored by luminaries in the field of organization development such as Peter Block, Chris Worley and Edie and Charles Seashore. And is trained and certified in a variety of leadership assessments.

As an author, Matt has published articles in both academic, peer-reviewed journals as well as trade magazines such as Training and Development. He has been a regular presenter at the Organization Development Network annual conference. Matt holds a Master’s degree in Organization Development (MSOD) from Pepperdine University where his thesis research was focused on building trust in groups.

Geoff Graber: As a coach and thought partner for CEOs, Geoff combines his 20-plus year career as an entrepreneur and executive with a passion for supporting others in life, leadership and business. He founded Evolution to support extraordinary leaders and organizations fulfill their potential as world-enriching entities.

Geoff started his career in coaching and leadership consulting in 2006 with Axialent, where he received hands-on training and mentorship from some of the world’s top coaches, including founder, Fred Kofman, author of “Conscious Business”” and organizational culture guru, Carolyn Taylor, author of “Walking the Talk.”  He left Axialent two years later to start an enterprise coaching software firm, Scout OnDemand. Scout, which won awards as a top HR software product, is currently deployed at a number of Fortune 500 corporations, including Intel, Whirlpool, and Pfizer. Scout was acquired by leading enterprise coaching provider, CoachSource.

Prior to moving to coaching, Geoff launched and led a number of technology businesses. He launched the first video games company in China with Electronic Arts (EA), and led Yahoo! Games to become the world’s largest games website. In addition to Scout and Evolution, Geoff has founded and led two other businesses—Muse Corporation (a 3D social media software platform); and IQI Accessories (a maker of innovative laptop accessories)—and served as the CEO for another venture-backed startup. Geoff began his career in finance, first at the venture capital and private equity arm of Bank of America and later at IDG Capital Partners, the first VC in China.

Geoff graduated with honors from UCLA in East Asian Studies and Business. He has also studied in Taiwan, at the East-West Center at University of Hawaii, and at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Logistics:

  • August 26-27, 2015 in Montecito, California at Casa de Maria retreat center. Starts August 26 at 10am, with arrivals beginning at 9am. Ends August 27 at 1pm.
  • $650 for singles; $600 for doubles; $550 for triples (Price includes lodging and four meals)
  • Suitable for individuals or teams, space limited to 36 people.
  • For questions about logistics, please contact Shelley Lozdon at Shelley@evo-lu-tion.com
  • For program questions, please contact Patricia Hunter-McGrath at Patricia@branchesatelier.com or Geoff Graber at Geoff@evo-lu-tion.com

Payment:

  • Your place is held with full payment. Fees are non-refundable but are transferrable if necessary.
  • Payment can be made by check or PayPal. Please make checks to:

Evolution Service Corp.

4265 Mildred Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90066

Or Send PayPal payment to shelley@evo-lu-tion.com

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We still have some space in our upcoming Clay Workshop.

We still have some space in our upcoming Clay Workshop.

 Integrating Clay into the Classroom and Curriculum: 

A hands on Exploration of Clay

Saturday, June 20th, 2015 9am to 3pm $100.00 Clay reg form

Presented by Patricia Hunter McGrath and Shirley Vien

  • What is the alphabet of clay?
  • How can clay support literacy?
  • How is clay used to represent children’s ideas?
  • How is clay introduced to the children?
  • How does the use of clay expand and deepen the curriculum?
  • How does clay become a tool for collaboration?

This Workshop includes the price of 25LB of clay that participants can take back to their centers.

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Branches Clay Workshop Date Change

We still have some space in our upcoming Workshops.

Please note the important DATE CHANGE  for the Clay Workshop which will now be on June 20th.

Viewing the World through Our Lens: A Journey Through Photography and Transformation   New Workshop

Saturday May 30th 9am to 3pm  $75.00 Branches_spring_2015_Reg_Form

Presented by Iwonka Dziag and Laila Hussain

  • What is the language of photography?
  • How can photography support literacy?
  • How is photography used to represent children’s ideas and uncover children’s theories?
  • How is photography introduced to the children?
  • How does photography alter our understandings of the world?
  • How does this language support children’s imagination?
  • How does the use for clay expand and deepen the curriculum?
  • How does photography support poetic language?

 Integrating Clay into the Classroom and Curriculum: 

A hands on Exploration of Clay

Saturday June 20th 9am to 3pm $100.00 Branches_spring_2015_Reg_Form

Presented by Patricia Hunter McGrath and Shirley Vien

  • What is the alphabet of clay?
  • How can clay support literacy?
  • How is clay used to represent children’s ideas?
  • How is clay introduced to the children?
  • How does the use of clay expand and deepen the curriculum?
  • How does clay become a tool for collaboration?

This Workshop includes the price of 25LB of clay that participants can take back to their centers.

About the presenters

 

Patricia Hunter McGrath is the Executive Director/Atelierista of  Branches Atelier in Culver City, California.  Over the past 19 years she has developed an innovated early childhood program inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach. From 2005 to 2007 Patricia developed the role of the Atelierista at Bold Park Community School in Perth, Australia. From 1998 to 2005 she was the Atelierista at Evergreen Community School where she developed a unique approach to children’s symbolic languages. Using clay, wire, paint, dance, etc. children enter into relationship with the materials and express, clarify and modify their ideas and theories. She also taught at the Growing Place in Santa Monica for 7 years. Patricia is an artist and has over 20 years experience in Early Childhood Education.  Patricia has taught the Reggio Emilia Class at Santa Monica College and at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia.  Patricia graduated with a Masters degree in Human development from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, California. She also speaks at conferences throughout the United States and abroad and has visited Reggio Emilia, Italy six times.  She is also a contributing author of the book In the Spirit of the Atelier published by Davis Press and Insights and Inspiration from Reggio Emilia also published by Davis Press.

Christina Bianchi is a preschool teacher and environmental atelierista at Branches Atelier. Prior to becoming an educator at Branches Atelier, Christina worked as the Program Director for The Children’s Nature Institute bringing her passions for teaching, children and promoting environmental literacy to the agency. In addition to overseeing both the design and implementation of all new education programs and curricula; Christina also worked with Development staff on grants related to program development, managed a staff of Environmental Educators and coordinated and implemented volunteer training.

Joshua Castillo attended Pacific Oaks College and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development with a minor in Social Change.  A student of the Early Childhood Field for over 20 years, Joshua has sought to provide information and support to families, which will enhance their journey through life.  Joshua taught at Evergreen Community School and trained new staff for eleven years. She also was the director and teacher of Hill & Dale Infant/Toddler Family Learning Center.  She has a passion for learning with children with special rights, as well as a wide range of age groups. Joshua firmly believes that formal education merely enhances the foundation created by family.  A long time collaborator with Patricia, it is with great enthusiasm that she has found an opportunity to work alongside her.

Shirley Vien is a preschool and toddler teacher at Branches Atelier. Shirley graduated California State University of Northridge with a degree in Family Studies. She was the Program Associate of a non-profit literacy program called Jumpstart that serves children and their families in low-income areas. Shirley was part of Jumpstart for 5 years in the San Fernando Valley. Shirley was also teaching/caring in the infant room at Bright Horizons for two years. Prior to coming to Branches full time Shirley also participated in developing a Reggio-inspired Christian-based program in Boyle Heights with Professor Wilbur from East Los Angeles Community College and her colleagues. With the love of children etched in her bones, Shirley is passionate about understanding children, how they see, learn and interpret their world.

Iwona Dziag has been a teacher at Branches Atelier for two years. Prior to her venture into Reggio-inspired environments, she taught preschool at the Children’s Center at Caltech in Pasadena for over five years. Iwona holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Linguistics from UC Berkeley and is currently working towards a Master of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education at Cal State Northridge. Iwona is passionate about creating dialogic spaces for children where they feel safe and empowered to exchange and negotiate experiences, ideas and perspectives.

Laila Hussain received her BA from Loyola University in Chicago. She then went on to earn her Early Childhood Education Certificate from Santa Monica College. While studying, she discovered a passion for providing children with the opportunity to truly be a child; giving them time to explore, play, wonder, make choices, feel emotions, express ideas and be loved. Recently her interests include researching children’s strategies for connecting ideas and language that cultivates collaboration in the classroom.

For more information about upcoming workshops please visit: www.ReggioInspirations.com

This is the best resource and quickest way to be informed of all upcoming workshops.

For more information about Branches Atelier please visit: www.BranchesAtelier.com

To secure your space, please download the registration form Branches_spring_2015_Reg_Form and mail it in with your payment.

 

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Branches Atelier Preschool/Toddler Teacher Position

Branches Atelier Preschool/Toddler Teacher Position 

Branches Atelier is an innovative, dynamic preschool with a home-like quality, nestled in a beautiful campus in Culver City, California. We are looking for an energetic, passionate, creative, warm, friendly, nurturing and self-motivated teacher to join our Reggio inspired learning community.

Prospective applicants should have a BA in ECE or related field, strong child development background, and at least two years of early childhood experience. We are willing to consider a teacher who holds their teacher permit with 3 to 5 years experience.

Salary & Benefits: $17 – $22 per hour, based on education and experience

Start Date: Possibly July 2015, or no later than September 2015

All applicants must have:

  • A passion for teaching and life long learning.
  • An interest in learning Branches philosophy and values.
  • A commitment to developing a strong and dynamic learning community for children and parents.
  • Knowledge and experience with social constructivism and the Reggio approach.
  • An interest in using creative materials with young children.
  • Strong collaborative and communication skills.
  • Openness for feedback and self-reflection.
  • Great writing skills.
  • A commitment to professional development.
  • An innovative, creative and open mind.
  • A genuine passion and commitment to quality education for children.
  • Computer literate using Mac computers and software.
  • Availability to work approximately 30 to 38 hours/week.

If you are interested in this position, please proceed by submitting the following materials:

 

Visit our website at www.branchesatelier.com so you can learn about our school. Write a cover letter that explains why you are interested in working with us, why you became a teacher, what kind of person you are, what are your interests and what brings you joy.

Along with your cover letter please email your resume to: patricia@branchesatelier.com Incomplete submissions will be deleted.

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