I have a passion for the arts, and for making students aware of their innate ability to express themselves and solve problems in new and creative ways. With a strong foundation as practicing artist and full time teacher, I am able to facilitate an exciting, inspiring environment for exploration, discovery and appreciation of the arts across all grade levels. I incorporate brain research on neuroplasticity in my instruction to increase focus, retention and productivity, and integrate technology as a tool in every stage of learning.

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I put emphasis on authentic creative process over product, and individual, holistic growth through meaningful, purposeful, carefully planned lessons that connect with other subjects and are relevant to the students. My inquisitive approach encourages the development of a healthy curiosity. As a result, every child is able to reach their maximum potential. In art, the resulting increasingly complex portfolios and journals reflect the student's maturity and degree of self-awareness.

I am convinced that early artistic exploration improves students' critical thinking skills and gives them powerful tools to solve real life problems. In this regard, it is is important to me to create opportunities for students to impact their world through art. This social dimension may include art shows for family and friends, participation in competitions, field trips, virtual collaboration with another class or school, and art-based service projects. In my class, every child can offer a meaningful contribution to their community regardless of age or skill.

To allow students to accomplish these goals, my classroom is a caring, safe, and dynamic environment where each child is motivated and challenged to think, explore, grow, and blossom. Children become responsible by utilizing strategies such as positive reinforcement, explicit expectations, clear rules, classroom jobs, team work, and buddies. By being in charge of their own behavior and learning, students increase self-esteem and become successful in life.​

 

My instruction is relevant, interactive and engaging, recognizing the different learning styles and aiming for growth. Technology, music, reading, writing, talking, dancing, acting, and singing are all typical parts of our art class, as are debates of ideas and self-reflection. The goal is to help develop well rounded students of integrity who take each day as a new opportunity to search for higher truths and are neither afraid of challenge or failure. , that fee

 

Finally, on the professional and personal level, I remain a curious lifelong learner. Witnessing the students' amazing metamorphosis by the end of each school year, I am humbled, strengthened, and encouraged in the realization that this journey together, though messy and startling at times, is totally worthwhile!