Hocus Focus

Autism workshop at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts.
Kevin Spencer, educator
HocusFocus Education
Grant a Gift Autism Foundation students
Candy Schneider, Vice President of Education and OutreachOur newest education program sends master magician, educator, and autism expert Kevin Spencer into special-needs and inclusive classrooms throughout Santa Fe. Kevin has a gift for connecting with kids, including those with moderate to severe special needs. In his Hocus Focus workshops, he teaches students to perform simple magic tricks—not only bringing smiles to their faces but helping them develop and hone communication, coordination, behavioral, and other essential cognitive skills.

During a weeklong Lensic residency in November 2018, Kevin worked one-on-one with kids at 11 Santa Fe schools and the May Center for Learning. Kevin returns for two one-week residencies during the 2019-20 academic year.

“[Kevin] was able to bring his ‘magic’ and his ability to reach those who have difficulties with novel activities and anxiety by engaging them in magic tricks to elicit communication, turn taking, presentation skills and pure joy! Teachers and student want more and can’t wait for his return!”

–Jocelin Tilton, Autism Specialist, Santa Fe Public Schools

About Kevin Spencer

Kevin Spencer is considered the leading authority on the educational and therapeutic benefits of magic tricks in the classroom. His research has been published in major academic journals, and his work has taken him around the world to conduct professional development training for educators and interactive classroom activities for students. Kevin believes in the power of the arts to bring transformative educational experiences to students of all abilities.

Contact Info
Learn more about Kevin Spencer and his Hocus Focus programs by calling Laura Acquaviva at 505-988-7050, ext. 1203, or by email at lacquaviva@lensic.org.