Mary

Tell us why you became a teacher

Teaching is a calling I could NOT ignore. I kept finding myself in positions to teach, from volunteering to run classes, teaching workshops, and eventually taking a job as an art teacher at a catholic school. Soon I was back in school to earn k-12 art education certification, and I've been teaching ever since! Now I teach students aged 7-17 and adults. Guiding my students and sharing my passions for creativity and the arts brings me the most joy.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Creating a safe space for my students is one of my biggest missions. Once my students are settled into the art room, I LOVE the freedom they feel to be themselves. As my classes mix grade levels, and students from different towns, I adore when they begin to truly chat with one another, make play dates and compliment each other's work. When one student asks a question, I encourage others to assist when comfortable. This engaging art community spirit is what makes the art room so special!

What would you do with the $25,000?

Goodness, with $25,000 I would pay off school loans and put some money back into my art budget for my students! Working with quality art materials sets students up better success rates and improves their confidence to experiment and try different things.