Getting ready for the first day of school!

As the first day of school is approaching fast, teachers are busy getting classrooms ready for a new group of students.  For me, this means starting from scratch.  While a bit daunting, the opportunity to create a classroom from a blank canvas is an exciting task.  I have taught middle school art for the past five years, so while I am not new to teaching art, I am new to teaching art to the younger crew.

My approach to my classroom design? I have taken my middle school art classroom management skills and have adapted and modified where necessary to create an art space that is functional, promotes a positive and creative learning environment and of course, is visually appealing!  It is an art room, after all. Working with an untraditional classroom footprint was a bit of a challenge, but I am happy with the way the room has come along.  Sure, I'll make changes as I go, but for now, I am ready to fill those colorful stools with students who are eager to create art!

Excited for the new school year!

I am SO excited to be bringing an Art program to Star Academy!  Natomas Charter School is an amazing place to teach. Teachers are given the freedom and creativity to develop unique and engaging curriculum (an Art teachers dream).  I have taught Expressive Arts at Leading Edge Academy for the past five years and am thrilled to become a part of Star Academy!

Star kiddos and I will begin our journey together in Art by beginning the year with a Self Exploration Unit.  This unit focuses on the basic Elements of Art and allows me to get to know the kids and make personal connections.

Our first project will be creating Monochromatic Self Portraits that will become a collaborative piece with all grade levels at Star Academy.  The end result will be a colorful wall mural full of inviting self portraits that will greet us every day as we turn the corner to the new Art Room!  Stay tuned to see our original photos of how it turns out!