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"How can you be an artist and not reflect the times?"
Nina Simone
PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION
My life experiences, particularly my work in foster care, have deeply impressed upon me the complex, layered nature of every individual. This understanding fuels my desire to cultivate a progressive art classroom where students feel genuinely seen, valued, and inspired. My focus isn't on traditional discipline, but rather on guiding each student's personal growth and progress. I believe that just as the world evolves, our teaching methods must adapt to better serve and uplift our youth.
While I respect the structure traditional teaching offers, I've observed that rigid formulas don't reach every student effectively. Young people certainly thrive on routine, yet I aim for a more fluid classroom environment—one built on mutual understanding rather than just strict rules. Through consistent role modeling, informed by my background in mental health where I saw its profound impact, I strive to show students that trust is built over time. Developing a strong, respectful student-teacher relationship requires acknowledging and honoring each other's needs.
Every student brings unique gifts to the classroom, and I am eager to weave their individual talents into our lessons. I see my students as potential future leaders, and I want them to leave my class feeling confident not only in their artwork but also in their perspectives on the world. My aspiration is for my students to become fearless advocates for justice. Sharing my skills feels inherent to who I am; rooted in my Mexican heritage, I feel a distinct responsibility to pass on my craft and knowledge to the next generation.
CURRICULUM RESOURCES
This lesson will be introduced at he beginning of the year. Students will create and practice their blending skills first by practicing how to draw eyes, a mouth and nose.
In the Spring, we revisit this lesson and students learn how to create a portrait using various illustration styles.
With almost 100% class participation, this was easily my most popular lesson. Students learn about the traditional Japanese printmaking methods. They create a stamp eraser first and test eachothers tool handling. After students show proficiency in with this small project they may begin their bigger print design.
A Spring hit! Students were taught about the French impressionists and we studied Monet's famous Water Lilies painting. The focus for this project was to prepare students for painting outdoors or plein air. I tested students on their watercolor techniques and overall art elements on the day we paint outdoors.