Albuquerque Public Schools
SETT Teacher Helps Build Skills Through Weaving
Hands-on Genius Hour activities support creativity, focus and fine motor development at East San Jose Elementary.
The Special Education Teacher Training program is helping future educators gain meaningful classroom experience while supporting students in creative and engaging ways across APS schools.
SETT is a year-long residency partnership between Albuquerque Public Schools, Albuquerque Teachers Federation, Central New Mexico Community College and The University of New Mexico. Through the program, teacher residents work alongside experienced educators while applying what they learn through coursework in real classroom settings.
One of those residents is Brent Bausano, who completed his residency placement at East San Jose Elementary School with cooperating teacher Megan Willoughby under the leadership of Principal Eder Ortiz. Next school year, Bausano will lead his own classroom.
As part of Genius Hour activities at East San Jose, Bausano introduced students to weaving projects designed to teach foundational weaving skills while also developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Students used a variety of kid-friendly tools and materials, including tapestry needles, weaving combs, cardboard frames, potholder looms and wooden lap looms. As students progressed, they learned to identify and properly use weaving materials such as looms, shuttles, needles and yarn, while also practicing safe scissor skills.
Throughout the cycle, students created several woven projects to take home and enjoy. Many students shared that they found weaving relaxing and calming after a long school day.
This year, Bausano also helped lead Genius Hour activities focused on typing club and basketball, giving students opportunities to build a variety of skills, habits and mindsets connected to lifelong success.
The SETT program continues to provide future educators with valuable mentorship opportunities while supporting engaging, hands-on learning experiences for APS students.
For more information about the SETT program:
🔗 Learn about the CNM SETT Program: CNM SETT Website
🔗 Learn about the UNM SETT Program: UNM SETT Website