Hillbrook School Podcast Bill Selak, Annie Makela, VanNessa Hulme Silbermann

Episode Notes -
In this thought-provoking episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak delves deep into the evolving intersection of AI, education, and the creative arts. As we navigate the burgeoning landscape of artificial intelligence, Bill challenges the narrative surrounding AI in schools, focusing on the burgeoning role of creative writing in an AI-driven future. He introduces the concept of prompt engineering as an emerging career path, underscoring the importance of preparing students for jobs that are just beginning to take shape.

Bill also breaks down the exciting capabilities of Sora, the latest AI tool that transforms text into video, revolutionizing the way we approach storytelling and film-making. He argues that the ability to craft descriptive writing is no longer just a marker of good prose; it's now the key to producing compelling visual content. By highlighting the direct correlation between the richness of language and the quality of AI-generated images and videos, this episode emphasizes the critical need for creativity and descriptive prowess in the classroom.

As we head into Spring Break, Bill encourages educators and parents to embrace the potential of AI as a tool for enhancing the arts and equipping students with the skills to become the content creators and storytellers of tomorrow. This episode is not only a reflection on the current season's theme but also a forward-looking discussion about the essential role of the arts in shaping the educational landscape in an era of rapid technological advancement.

Tune in for an insightful exploration of how AI is not just reshaping the future of media but is also reinforcing the value of artistic expression and writing skills in our students' education. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that bridges the worlds of writing and creative arts in unprecedented ways. And stay tuned for the remaining episodes of the season, where we continue to celebrate the integral role of the arts in learning at Hillbrook School. Listen in, get inspired, and join us on this journey through innovation and creativity.
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Episode Notes -
In this melodic episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak sits down with the multifaceted Derek Primo Silverman, music and "other things" maestro at Hillbrook. The conversation strikes a harmonious blend of music, technology, and education as they delve into the intricacies of the Winter Concert and the role AI played in refining the show choir's performance. Derek shares the behind-the-scenes magic of arranging popular songs, the unexpected tempo tweaks, and the innovative use of AI-driven audio manipulation software from iZotope to polish the choir's recordings.

The duo also explores the broader implications of AI in audio, from enhancing student creativity to its potential for improving urban soundscapes and overall well-being. As they discuss the transformative power of tools like GarageBand and Loopy HD, the episode resonates with the excitement of making music production more accessible and inspiring for students.

Tune in for an enlightening symphony of ideas, illustrating how AI is not just changing the future of music but also amplifying the educational experience at Hillbrook School. Listen in as Bill and Derek riff on the future of sound, and don't miss the buzz about upcoming musicals "13" and "Beauty and the Beast Junior."
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Episode Notes -
Join host Bill Selak, Director of Technology at Hillbrook School, for an engaging and lively discussion with two special guests, both named Vanessa. In this episode, Vanessa Fernandez, Program and Research Lead for the Scott Center, and VanNessa Hulme Silberman, Performing Arts Director at Hillbrook, dive into the world of art and activism. They explore how art serves as a powerful tool for teaching and understanding complex subjects like early 20th-century literature, and how it reflects cultural shifts and technological advancements. The conversation also touches on the public art renaissance in San Jose and its impact on education. The Vanessas share their personal journeys in art and activism, discussing how they incorporate these elements into their teaching and personal projects. From transforming classic plays to reflect modern sensibilities to fostering student-led social impact projects, this episode is a testament to the power of art in shaping perspectives and driving change. Listen in for an inspiring blend of art, education, and activism, and how these elements are interwoven at Hillbrook School.
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Episode Notes -
In this episode of the Hillbrook School podcast, host Bill Selak engages in a one-on-one conversation with Martin, the Hub Engineer at Hillbrook. Martin shares his unique journey from aspiring designer to industrial design graduate, highlighting his passion for helping students bring their creative dreams to life. He discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching, emphasizing the importance of failure as a learning tool. Martin also delves into his personal venture of crafting wallets, blending aesthetics with functionality, and the lessons learned from running a business. The episode explores the Hillbrook Engineering Learning program, where students are encouraged to experiment and innovate, and the impact of design thinking in education. Join Bill and Martin for an inspiring discussion on creativity, education, and the power of pursuing one's passions.
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Episode Notes -
In this episode, art teachers Laura and Susie join host Bill Selak to discuss how visual arts education enhances creativity and imagination in ways that benefit every profession. From amusing elementary student dream jobs like "duck helper" to thought-provoking insights about art's impact on happiness and fulfillment, this episode how skills like keen observation, perseverance, and design thinking lend themselves to careers like detective, architect, and engineer. Laura and Susie share anecdotes about teaching techniques like blind contour drawing to train sight and hand-eye coordination. Their passion for the arts shines through as they assert visual arts' role in improving lives by building community and fulfillment.
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Episode Notes -
Explore how music education is not just an isolated subject but can be integrated into other areas of the curriculum. Hear about real-world examples from Hillbrook where music has been used to enhance learning in subjects like math, history, and even science.

Jamie unveils her passion for the Orff approach, where young musicians improvise and find their groove. Derek rocks music class, leading a 20-piece middle school rock band, with so much student interest that students are doubling up on instruments! VanNessa conducts a choral revolution, growing enrollment from just four to over 100 voices. Listen in as this tight-knit ensemble fills Hillbrook with symphonic sounds.
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