Kate Klise wrote her first book when she was ten years old, so she speaks with a certain authority when she encourages children to begin their writing careers now. With more than thirty books to her credit (picture books, early readers, middle grade novels, and one YA title), Kate relates well to students of all ages. When working with early readers (grades K-2, 30 minutes), Kate offers gentle advice about writing stories and invites students to create an original story on the spot. When presenting to older students (grades 3–6, 50 minutes), Kate focuses on the writing process: where she gets her ideas, how she writes her rough drafts, why the art of rewriting is so critical, and—yes!—how she comes up with all those punny names in the Regarding and 43 Old Cemetery Road series. In addition, Kate explains the classic elements of storytelling, including the importance of sending characters on journeys. In addition to large-group presentations, Kate also offers fiction and non-fiction writing workshops for smaller groups (30 students or less, 50 minutes). As a 15-year veteran for People magazine, Kate enjoys sharing her tips and tricks for writing on deadline. Over the years she’s taught countless students how to write colorful, compelling, and often hilarious People magazine-style stories about themselves and others.

The Wild Center, located in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate NY, spans 115 acres and offers visitors a variety of experiences. Named the 2024 #1 science museum in the country by USA Today readers, The Wild Center’s mission is to ignite an enduring passion for nature that inspires action to ensure a thriving natural world. Highlights include a vast trail system, treetop adventures on Wild Walk, Raquette River Roll interactive ball runs, Forest Music, Birdly Virtual Reality, art installations and 54,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space with interactives in Planet Adirondack and Climate Solutions, all year long. The Wild Center offers on-site and virtual field trips for students, camps, scout groups, and youth groups. The Wild Center blends natural history, science, technology, and art into a unique experience that builds upon classroom learning and lifelong memories. Experiences can be a Virtual Field Trip, an onsite Wild Classroom Workshop lead by Wild Center staff, and/or an onsite Self-Guided Experience. The Wild Center’s programs are experiential, student-driven, and designed to support New York State Educational Standards while engaging students in hands-on, interactive learning experiences. Please contact the School Programs Coordinator at schoolprograms@wildcenter.org, call us at (518) 359-7800 x 123, or visit our website at www.wildcenter.org/schoolprograms for more information and/or to schedule a field trip.

You Inc provides engaging programming for K-12 to encourage students to develop good money habits and growth mindsets about money early on and continuously throughout their development. Topics related to money and personal finance should be introduced to students at each grade level. Just as math and reading have several different facets and sub topics for children to master from kindergarten to 12th grade and beyond, personal finance also has its own nuances and categories that can and should be mastered early in a child's development and continue to evolve into more complex topics and subtopics as children grow and develop into young adults. By doing so, we develop a generation of financially secure adults who experience better financial outcomes due to making better financial decisions. Our workshops help students understand the basics of earning, saving, budgeting, and giving back. For younger children, we use interactive activities and storytelling to introduce financial concepts in a fun and relatable way, laying the groundwork for good habits and smart decision-making. For older students, we dive deeper, covering topics such as goal-setting, smart spending, credit, and pathways to building wealth—all tailored to prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood. We also emphasize the importance of financial independence and provide students with tools to break free from cycles of financial instability that they may see in their communities. Our culturally competent approach ensures that all students see themselves reflected in the material, and we prioritize empathy, understanding, and real-life application in a way that fosters financial inclusion for all. Our team is certified in financial education from the National Financial Educators Council with over a decade of experience teaching financial literacy across New York State. We are also a certified NYS Minority and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE). Our goal is to help K-12 students gain essential life skills and grow up feeling confident and capable in managing their financial lives. Let's inspire a generation of students who are not only financially aware but also equipped to pursue their dreams with a strong, sustainable financial foundation. In addition to k-12 programs, we offer Family Finance Programs for the entire family unit, including parents and caregivers. These one day programs can take place in the evening and students attend with their parents/guardians and two separate workshops take place simultaneously, equipping the family ecosystem to elevate their money conversations in the home, and providing tools and strategies to help parents optimize their family finances while nurturing a culture of healthy financial habits in the home.

Bardavon 1869 Opera House, Inc. (known familiarly as “the Bardavon'') is a New York State nonprofit corporation that owns and operates two historic theaters. The 928-seat Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie is the oldest continuously operating theater in the state, among the oldest in the country, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 1500-seat Ulster Performing Arts Center/Broadway Theater (UPAC) is a National Register property built in Kingston in 1927. UPAC was merged into Bardavon's corporate structure in 2007. The Bardavon consistently presents the highest quality music, dance, theater, and classic films in both its venues. The Bardavon has brought together artists, businesses, and government to produce outdoor events that draw thousands of residents and visitors to the region annually, providing free access to superb art as a source of community pride, urban revitalization, and cultural tourism. The Bardavon Education Program partners with regional schools in offering unique arts-based learning experiences for students and innovative tools for teachers. The continued restoration and preservation of the Bardavon 1869 Opera House and the Ulster Performing Arts Center/Broadway Theater is also a vital aspect of our mission.

My programs connect students and staff to the magic of art and wellness, fostering self-expression, resilience, and community pride in ways that go beyond traditional instruction. With a dynamic and inclusive approach, I create memorable experiences that invite individuals to engage, reflect, and grow. Here’s how I can bring transformative value to your school: ___SERVICES____ CUSTOM MURALS & MURAL PROGRAMS I work with schools to create vibrant, community-centered murals that serve as “activation spaces” for empowerment and wellness. My mural programs involve students and staff throughout the entire creative process—from brainstorming and sketching to the final brushstroke—fostering pride and ownership of the space. Each mural is designed to reflect the school’s culture and to become a joyful, welcoming space. • Mural Programs: Involve students and staff from concept to completion • Any Size and Location: Indoor, Outdoor, Floor, Ceiling, Windows, 3D Structures • Digital/Physical Designs for Marketing and Promotion ART & WELLNESS WORKSHOPS These hands-on workshops explore the intersection of art and wellness, focusing on skills for emotional expression, identity, and creativity. Each workshop includes wellness techniques—such as mood regulation and goal-setting—that empower participants personally and academically. Workshops can be customized to provide a comprehensive and meaningful experience. • Art Techniques: Mural Making, Printmaking, Drawing, Painting, Graphic Design, Clothing Design • Wellness for Students and Staff: Yoga, Meditation, Energy Awareness, Breathing Techniques, Sound Healing • Career Pathways: Art Entrepreneurship, Portfolio Development, Self-employment Guidance • Language Support: Customized materials for non-native English speakers (Spanish available) GUEST SPEAKING Through engaging talks and interactive sessions, I share insights from my life and career that inspire students and staff to explore their potential. With options for keynote addresses, classroom discussions, professional development, and wellness workshops, each engagement is tailored to connect with audiences of any age group. • Keynote Speaker • Panel Discussions • One-on-one, Small and Large Groups • In-classroom Experiences (All ages) • Staff Development in Art and Wellness CONSULTING I offer consulting services to help schools and organizations develop meaningful art and wellness programs, design spaces that inspire, and cultivate positive school culture. • Interior/Exterior Aesthetic Design • Art Education Curriculum & Development • Wellness Curriculum & Development • Classroom Culture & Development • Staff Professional and Personal Development ADDITIONAL SERVICES To complement murals and programming, I provide extra support in content creation and promotional services to enhance the visibility and impact of your school’s art and wellness initiatives. • Custom Social Media Content for Promotional/Educational Use • Photography and Videography for School Promotion and Documentation WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE? My programs are designed to help students thrive by nurturing their creativity, focus, and self-regulation. Through a blend of art and wellness, students gain practical techniques for managing their emotions, expressing themselves, and developing valuable artistic and entrepreneurial skills—all of which support their ability to engage fully in the classroom. From hands-on mural projects that build school pride to wellness-centered workshops that equip students with tools for emotional balance, each experience creates a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the classroom. Our approach for schools offers a meaningful way to enhance classroom culture and community spirit. Teachers and staff gain new methods to support student well-being and foster a more connected, balanced environment. If you’re ready to see your school enlightened through creativity, connection, and lasting joy; let’s give them an unforgettable experience.

Over 10 educational school assemblies featuring Reading, Math, Science and Character Education

Programs include weekday matinee performances for student field trips, school partnerships, artists-in-residence, sensory friendly experiences, programs for those with autism and other sensory needs, professional development for educators, and master classes.

Since 2003, Sheryl Faye has masterfully brought to life important historical women to both adults and children around the world. In her one-woman shows, she immerses the audience in a multimedia learning experience that captivates viewers and sparks their interest to explore more. These shows are available in two different versions, one for adult audiences and one for children which are perfect for school Enrichment Programs and any other historical-themed events, bringing history alive for adults and children alike.

Yoga promotes inner and outer strength, confidence and self-esteem. Students learn how to move their bodies using yoga poses, connect with their breath using breathing techniques and still their minds using visualization. Mindfulness is the ability to stay present in the moment as it is, to pay attention on purpose. Students learn focusing and calming techniques allowing them to stay present. These practices of self care will certainly serve them throughout their entire lives. Students work at their own pace in a fun, supportive environment. Donna has certifications ERYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, YACEP through Yoga Alliance, teaching for over 25 years and has extensive experience teaching students in schools and camps for over 15 years.

The Buffalo Zoo's Education team is here to provide your students with a WILD educational experience! Whether you're looking for a virtual program that will take you inside some of our animal exhibits, a presentation to enhance your Zoo field trip, or the Zoomobile to bring the Zoo to You, we can meet your group's learning needs. There are so many topics to choose from, including unique habitats, amazing adaptations, conservation, and so much more!

Wendy and DB Duo and Band - Get your Sunny Side UP with Grammy nominated and award-winning kindie duo from Chicago, with two vocals, guitar and a ukulele, Wendy and DB blend their powerful voices, write and perform songs about science, nature, diversity, animals, safety, and the arts. Their unique style is reflected in the music and catchy lyrics along with their vocal harmonies. They examine the world with curiosity and what you experience is just plain fun!  Wendy and DB Pioneers of Blues for kids and families concerts are high energy and get everyone moving, singing, and dancing.   Grammy Nominated in 2023 in the Best Children’s category for their album “Into the Little Blue House” a blues album for children and families. “Get your Sunny Side Side UP” is the bands 8th album filled with positive pop songs that will light up the whole neighbor with sunshine.

I'm an author/illustrator who presents to elementary school students about writing and illustrating humorous picture books, graphic novels, and chapter books. Each of my programs features multimedia presentations about how I make both fiction and non-fiction books. I include a mix of info about my writing and illustrating processes as well as exciting, interactive drawing demonstrations for all ages.