My Classroom

My mission as a teacher is to create an environment where every student feels safe and inspired. I use a student-led approach utilizing parts of the TAB teaching philosophy. My classroom simulates a real art studio where the students become working artists.

My style

The artists in my classroom focus on big ideas, material exploration, and artistic autonomy. I use contemporary art as the main framework for most of my lessons, tying in relevant historical and local contexts. I want my students to be:

  • Compassionate and considerate to others

  • Globally conscious of the ever-changing world around them

  • Educated on contemporary and historical art

  • Open-minded and willing to learn

  • Creative with materials, ideas, and techniques

  • TAB stands for "Teahing for artistic behavior". It is also reffered to as choice based art. I learned about this way of teaching from the teacher I student taught under, Gina Smith. Essentially, I want each student to have as much say in their art as possible. Instead of all creating the same project, each student will be able to create something unique to them. Here is a link to Mrs. Smiths website where she explains TAB more in depth https://sites.google.com/fayette.kyschools.us/mrssmithtablab/home/about-mrs-smith?authuser=0

  • My students work in a choice-based classroom. They are creating art that is personal to them and they are in control of their own artistic decisions. That means their will often look very different from their peers' work and they come to me with many different skill levels. So how do I grade them?

    Students turn in an artist statement with each piece of art they create. This statement includes the materials they used, the meaning of the work, and the processes they used to create it. Having a statement to go along with their art allows me to look into their mind and learn about the context in which they created it. I am able to better understand their artistic decisions, leading to a more fair grade.

    I also conduct workshops throughout the year to introduce new materials and techniques. These workshops are graded based on the product they create from it.

  • I am always in need of materials! Any recyclable items, such as cardboard, bottle caps, old clothes, wood scraps, corks, glass jars, etc. are welcome!

    I also have an amazon wishlist linked below for other supplies!

    Volunteers may be needed at times for art shows or community projects, check for emails from the school about those positions.

    My job wouldn't be possible without the help of the amazing staff and families of my students. Thank you for all the support!

  • I have two emails posted at the bottom of this page. If you are a parent, or contacting me for something related to school/teaching, please use the email labeled "for school". Feel free to reach out anytime!