Community Arts Partner

Teaching Approach

Teaching Philosophy + Approach

Eduardo Mendonça is known also by working in fully collaboration with teachers. He want to meet with the teacher beforehand to learn about academic goals and how he can approach to school goals the most as a possible without compromise his teaching style. Mendonça constantly check with teacher looking for reflect the performance of the class to make sure the goals are still aligned. A reflection is made as wrap-up.

Curriculum Integration Possibilities

One example for integrated arts residences: from 1998 to 2008 Eduardo has been annually in residency invited by the Geography teacher from Washington Middle School in his unit of South America. Mr. Katz moved to Roosevelt High School in 2009, and since then Eduardo is invited back to continue integrate music in his class. " I really enjoyed learning the rhythm on the drums, playing the bells and watching you play guitar. Your presentation really made me think about learning about other cultures and possibly traveling to Brazil - Allie Pleas ( 2014 - Roosevelt High School - Seattle, WA). " “Thank you for all the teaching and energy. I have really enjoyed your enthusiasm and talent. The different instruments you play are amazing! The experience I have had will stay with me for the rest of my life. My favorite instrument was the Agogo bells. Brazil sounds like an awesome place to visit.” Clayton Zimmerman , Sixth grade student - Chimacum Middle School - Chimacum, WA (Spring 1999). One example for cultural arts residence based in the lesson plan is on what the class/residency is about: "Experience the variety and power of the rhythms from Brazil. Participants of all ages and levels of ability will be introduced to several traditional rhythms. The focus is on a hands-on experience, allowing participants to feel the inner workings of Brazilian music in an intuitive and spontaneous way. Also, games and reflection are deeply used for community building.

Special Skills and Areas of Expertise

- Leading Professional Development with K-12 teachers, - Recording and filming to document, - Working with cultural diverse populations As an individual artist, Eduardo has been participating of several trainings on arts education and social justice. As he always say: "teaching is an endless process of learning", we will be always seeking for professional development experiences to revisit and improve his abilities as teaching artist.

Testimonials from Schools

Upon Request