Wolcott Elementary just wrapped up a fantastic artist in residence week with Justin Lander of Modern Times Theater. The week began with a full school assembly where Justin presented a show, helping students envision the week’s work ahead and build buy-in and excitement. Students participated in writing and storyline development, acting, music, and puppet building, culminating in a final presentation attended by the community and students’ families on February 16.

Justin Lander is a co-founder of Modern Times Theater and he has toured puppet shows on an international level since 2002. He is an alumnus of Bread & Puppet, co-founder of Vermont Vaudeville, and has received a Jim Henson Foundation award for the creation of original works. Justin will also conduct residencies at the three Mountain View Union campuses (Hardwick Elementary, Lakeview Elementary, and Wolcott Elementary) this spring.

The Modern Times Theater artist in residency is paid for with grant funds through ARP ESSER as a way to help students reengage with the learning process following the pandemic.