As with any complex project, the Artists in Residence (Education) partners have faced many issues and challenges over the course of developing and implementing a project. Most often school board or educational authority policy and practice dictate how to address these challenges, such as:
- a student is injured or makes an allegation of wrongdoing
- an artist is injured
- a student discloses abuse
- lack of inclusion of learners with disabilities
- mental health in the classroom—what if a project triggers a reaction from a student
Being pro-active and having open communication with all stakeholders can prevent many issues. We suggest communicating with, at minimum, in addition to artists and teachers, the following stakeholders before a project begins:
- parents and guardians on artistic practice, concepts and classroom learning goals
- teachers’ unions to highlight classroom partnership between artists and teachers
- superintendent about overall objectives, goals and outcomes
Policies and practices should be clear to the artist either in their contract with the school, an orientation package and/or information session provided by the school board or educational authority before they start. Also outline general steps that should be taken in the event of an issue, for example:
- to document the incident
- to consider confidentiality in matters of conflict and disclosure
- to seek support from board or educational authority resources