TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Art is not merely a subject; it is a powerful mode of expression, a tool for self-discovery, and a universal language that connects us all. As an art teacher, my "why" is rooted in my love for art since childhood. In third grade, I took glasses from the movie theater, popped out the lenses, painted them purple, walked up to my mother in my little purple tracksuit and new glasses, and said, “Mom, I want to be an art teacher.” Growing up with a physical disability affecting the function of my arm meant I was excluded from sports, but with art, anything was possible. Being given that outlet through my mother and teachers in my youth has made me the woman I am today, and I hope to impact my students just as they did for me.

As an art teacher, I aim to empower students to see themselves as creators who can shape the world around them. Whether they go on to pursue art professionally or simply carry the lessons of creativity and perseverance into other fields, I want my students to leave my classroom with a deeper appreciation for the arts and a stronger sense of their potential. By fostering a love for learning and an openness to new ideas, I hope to inspire them to keep exploring, imagining, and creating throughout their lives.

My classroom goal is to be welcoming, supportive, and collaborative, fostering a space where students feel safe expressing themselves and taking creative risks. I will prioritize mutual respect, open communication, and a growth mindset, encouraging students to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning. By maintaining a tone of encouragement and curiosity, I aim to create an environment where every student feels valued and motivated to contribute their unique voice to the artistic community we build together.

In my classroom, I embrace project-based learning, where students engage in hands-on, meaningful projects that promote active participation and deeper understanding. This approach allows students to connect their learning to real-world contexts, sparking curiosity and encouraging them to take ownership of their education. I will introduce students to a variety of artistic styles and techniques, helping them build strong foundational skills while also encouraging their personal creativity. By integrating project-based learning with a focus on craftsmanship and self-expression, I will create a classroom environment where students develop their artistic abilities while also learning important problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

As a lifelong learner, I am committed to continually growing as an educator and artist by taking art courses, attending workshops, and collaborating with others to refine my craft. In my own art practice, I explore themes of struggle, acceptance, and perseverance—experiences that have taught me the invaluable lessons of persistence, experimentation, and embracing mistakes as essential steps in the creative process. These insights will shape my teaching as I encourage students to approach art with curiosity and confidence, reminding them that there is no single "right" way to create. By sharing my personal journey of triumphs and challenges, I aim to inspire students to take bold, creative risks, view setbacks as opportunities for growth, and cultivate resilience in both their art and their lives.