Hey! I’m the Howard County Middle School Art Teacher of the Year!

Hooray for Me!

I normally don’t “toot my own horn”, and this blog is really a place to celebrate the work of my students and keep them informed on happenings in the art world…..BUT….I thought you’d like to know that the Maryland Art Education Association selected me as the “Middle School Art Teacher of the Year” for Howard County, Maryland for the 2008-2009 school year! I actually had no idea that I was even being considered until I received an email from the head of Howard County Visual Arts congratulating me.  There was a nice reception in Annapolis, and I received a very cool looking “statement” with signatures and a gold seal and ribbons–very official, indeed!

It is such a great feeling to be noticed for working hard and doing a good job.  This recognition sent the message home to me even more that all students need to feel encouraged, capable, respected and supported. I know I have had a number of students who struggle in other subjects but shine in art.  I know I have also had students who get A’s with ease and struggle with drawing and making.  Of course, I have also had students who fall anywhere inbetween those two extremes.  Wherever you think you are on that spectrum, I can promise you this–as a student in my art class, YOU matter. Your personal experience with art-making matters, and what you uniquely offer as a learner matters.  I strive to teach each individual as art skill ranges from basic to advanced during the middle school years. At the end of the quarter, it is my hope that you will leave my class emboldened to make, discuss and think about art in new and personally meaningful ways.  And even if some experiences in my room were challenging or frustrating, I hope you take with you the pride of knowing that you ventured into new territory, took challenges head on, and gave your best effort.  No one can ask for any more than that