E Elements of Gymcraftics

The name "gymcraftics" was given to a developing set of movements that promote cooperation, balance, strength, continuation of motion and performance. Whether a team, class in school, gathering of people with similar interests, or, group with varied ages, sizes and backgrounds, gymcraftics activities provide a means for sharing, learning and connecting.

It has been actively used as a training tool for a variety of sports and athletic events, including the track and field events: running, jumping, hurdling, throwing and vaulting.

For all learners, at all levels, we focus on progressions and sequences that build confidence and skills which can be adapted to the level of each learner. We bring together people who enjoy learning to balance, choreograph and share ideas.

They create a variety of sequences, routines and demonstrations.

The Gymcraftics Network - Started in 2010

A non-profit organization devoted to helping students discover the athletic, artistic and academic potential within. We work with schools, organizations and individuals to break the two-dimensional intelligence mold, verbal and mathematical, which continues to be the focus of educational institutions. By promoting kinesthetic, artistic and relational intelligences we seek to foster individualized motivations for learning.

Staff:

Abby Robbins

• Gymcraftics and Art Classes

• Visual Art Class

• Hand Crafts – After School and Advisory

• Gymcraftics Outreach Programs / Staff Development

Abby Robbins is an artist and educator. In addition to choreographing movement, she coordinates and supports students as they produce a variety of artistic pieces that contribute to gymcraftics performances. Her work extends through elementary school, middle school, high school and adult education. She has been an art teacher in a variety of settings including special needs programs.

Jane Farrell

• Gymcraftics and Art Classes

• Architecture, Facility Design and Models

• Gymcraftics Program – Outreach and Advisory / Staff Development

• Coaching: Indoor & Outdoor Track Seasons

Jane Farrell graduated from Brandeis University in 2006 with a joint major in Math and Physics. She was a member of the college track and field team and holds the school pole vault record. Starting with her senior thesis, which combined physics and pole vault, she has been active as a coach, mentor, choreographer and performer in a variety of gymcraftics performances, workshops and classes. She brings skills from her work in an architecture firm to develop and design a school and community performance and athletic facility. She currently is the president of the Gymcraftics Network where she coordinates outreach programs for schools and community organizations.

Jeff Robbins

• Gymcraftics and Art Classes

• Gymcraftics Performance, International Relations, Written and Photo Essay Class

• Gymcraftics Programs – Outreach and Advisory / Staff Development

• Coaching: Indoor & Outdoor Track Seasons

Jeff Robbins’ experience in education spans 45 years as a teacher, coach, consultant and workshop leader from 4th grade through graduate school. He has developed a number of innovative programs and courses such as an alternative studies center; educational television studio in a high school and helped start women’s pole vault in the United States. He has organized and facilitated a large number of instructional workshops and performances in gymcraftics.

Laura Golitko

• Gymcraftics Instructor: Cambridge Youth Centers.

• Gymcraftics staff: English High School Advisory Program and Open Workshops

Graduated from Bates College in 2008. Currently at Lesley University in a Masters Degree Program.

Teaches Gymcraftics at Boston area Schools, Youth Centers and Boys and Girls Clubs.

• As Outreach Coordinator she develops grants and sets up workshops at area community programs, schools and colleges.