Teaching statement

     Teaching art is an immensely fulfilling endeavor for me. There is nothing more rewarding than witnessing a student's genuine enthusiasm for their own ideas. I firmly believe that every child possesses innate creativity, yet not all students are afforded equal opportunities to explore and express it. This realization dawned on me during my first day as an art instructor for the Dallas Museum of Art's Community Outreach program. I was entrusted with inspiring students residing in the most underserved areas of Dallas County—many of whom faced the daily uncertainties of their basic needs. It became clear to me that my role as an art educator was to demonstrate to these students that their creativity is an essential life skill. Art has the power to become their purpose in life.

     One of the most satisfying aspects of my work is observing young minds develop a profound appreciation for the visual world, fostering a sense of connection to history, and cultivating respect for the diverse cultures that have shaped our society. In my classroom, I employ interactive activities and engaging discussions to ignite my students' motivation. Sometimes, I encourage them to analyze everyday activities and objects, breaking down the aesthetics of the world around us. My ultimate goal is for students to derive from my instruction a skill set that will benefit them throughout their lives.

     As an elementary art instructor, I am dedicated to creating an atmosphere that stimulates all young learners. I view assignments as invitations—a chance for students to become inspired, playfully experiment with ideas and concepts. My most successful lessons often begin with smiles. For instance, I might dress up as a medieval king with a crown when we delve into analyzing the three-dimensional forms of castles. I treat the content of my lessons as interconnected webs, emphasizing that what students learn in my art classes has connections to other subjects. This way, students can confidently make connections to history, science, and even math while recognizing the inherent value of creativity. By understanding the pervasive influence of visual cultures in our daily lives, students develop an appreciation for the arts and begin to cultivate their own sense of artistic worth.

    Every student deserves dignity and an opportunity to thrive in school. During the initial COVID-19 lockdowns, I noticed that many of my students lacked the basic materials necessary for our in-person classes. This deeply troubled me because these essential tools are crucial for developing their creative and physical skills. Moved by this realization, I took to social media and shared my concerns with my digital community. The responses I received spurred me into action, leading me to initiate a successful fundraiser that raised over $2,000. With these funds, I was able to provide individual art kits for my students to use at home. My own residence transformed into a makeshift warehouse, brimming with supplies. I also enlisted the help of fellow art teachers to package and distribute these art kits. The impact of these kits extended to numerous families across North Texas, including those experiencing homelessness in Collin County shelters. Witnessing the widening eyes and the joyous expressions of my students as they received their personal sketchbooks, markers, and artist pencils was an immensely proud and heartwarming moment, particularly during a global period of hardship.

     What truly makes my job meaningful is the opportunity to nurture a child's confidence and inspire them to embrace their authentic selves. Whether within the confines of the classroom or as they navigate life beyond, I aspire for my students to recognize the value of their contributions to this world and to celebrate the qualities that make them unique. It is an incredible honor to cultivate this mindset within them every day.