I am so excited to be a Preston Puma this year! This is my 12th year teaching middle school art in PSD. I took a 2 year break from teaching to be more present with my kids, and I am so excited to return to the classroom. I have a set of 4 year old twins, a 2nd grader, 2 dogs, and an amazing husband. I am also a Fort Collins native and a proud product of PSD.
I earned my BA degree in Art Education, with an emphasis in painting, through Colorado State University, Go Rams! I was lucky enough to study abroad in Italy during college, soaking up the stunning art and architecture and eating all of the glorious food. I am planning to begin my Master's in Teaching Through the Arts this Spring.
I love teaching because kids hold the key to the future. It's amazing how such young minds can be so powerful. Watching kids problem solve, create, and spark excitement through the learning process, are some of my favorite things about teaching. Middle school specifically is my favorite because each day brings something new... they keep me on my toes.
My hobbies include all sorts of art, spending most of my time drawing and painting (at least I did before kids). As a family we enjoy watching and playing all sports, especially the Rams and Denver Broncos. We love going on hikes and being in nature's wonder.
I will be teaching Photography, Painting, Art 1, and Jewelry Making this year at Preston. My classroom focuses on positive culture and confidence in and through the arts. We will use the elements and principles of art to plan and create personal works, expressing ideas and interests of the students. We will also study historical pieces and learn techniques to build confidence and skill sets.
WHY ART??
The arts develop essential skills for GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS in the 21st century workforce
- Planning - brainstorming, sketching, composition, finding own perspective
- Creative Thinking - reflection, peer feedback, visual spatial reasoning, focus, exploration, invention, problem solving
The arts promote active and complex learning. The arts are an essential language in our visual culture.
GO PUMAS!