"And in order to succeed in later life, you need creative skills because look at how fast the world is changing." -Robert Sternberg
As an art educator, I feel it is my responsibility to learn. I must be well versed not only in the methods and techniques of artistic media, but also in technology, and curriculum design. These skills transfer into the classroom and, with careful planning and proper balance, work in tandem to help create the best educational experience possible for students. Additionally, experiences outside the academic realm play an important role in the education of a child.
I construct my lessons around the North Carolina Standard Course of study and vertically align my curriculum so that my students are transitioned into the 7th grade and prepared for high school art when they leave the 8th grade. I have spent time abroad, studying art in France and Italy. I have also spent time in Mexico and Canada. My world travels provide me with a global perspective that I bring into the classroom.
I am
proficient in a variety of art media, including, but not limited to the
following: Painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, modeling and
casting, papermaking, pottery, and photography. Having such a broad base of experience allows me to craft lesson plans based on the interests of the student. Because I understand a variety of methods, techniques and processes associated with art, my class is replete with differentiated instruction aimed at producing the best results for all children.
In addition to my artistic and educational skills, I run. I served as a cross country coach leading my boys team to 2nd and 3rd place in 2008 and 2009 and leading my girls team to 2nd place in 2009. As a coach, my role is to inspire and teach. I educate children about the benefits of running, instilling a love of running for health, fitness, and enjoyment in all of my athletes. I train runners for stamina and speed through tempo runs, long runs, short runs, and Fartlek training. This type of training maximizes students' endurance and allows them to run the prescribed race distance easily.