PHILOSOPHY

THE BUILDING BLOCKS

As an educator, it is my philosophy that schools are not built to teach students everything they could possibly need to know. Instead, school should be a jumping off point to get students excited about learning. Teaching art is very rewarding because students not only are learning, but are growing within their own creative minds. Creativity is an often overlooked skill that is so important in every aspect of life. Being able to creatively problem solve can make the difference in how someone functions. 

 

THE PLAY

The arts allow students to experiment in ways that develop their brains to better face the obstacles that life brings. The best way for students to do this is to actively play with their materials. A student is going to get the most out of learning if they can participate in it. They should be able to play, make mistakes, and try again. My goals are for every student to feel safe to investigate new materials and try things that might not work. I don’t want the goal of the classroom to be grades.  Above all, students should be having fun. 

 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH

I teach by meeting every student where they are. If they need extra help, I will find a way to give that to them. If they need space, I give them breaks and time to process what they are doing. When a student finishes a work, I try to discuss it with them and give them gentle feedback about their areas of growth, and what can come next. It helps them to see that I am really looking at their work, and it gives them direction for the future. The most important aspects of my teaching are play and growth. I want students to be able to work on projects that they find interesting. I also want them to grow as artists and as people over the course of their education. Through feedback, and reworking, every student should learn the value of hard-work, and persistence while also enjoying their time making art.