“Making Art Meaningful” is the overarching framework I want to emphasize with all of my classes.

Teaching art is not just about teaching artistic skills. It is essential for developing students' self-esteem, confidence, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and perseverance. Further, art is universal and woven within cultures; this makes it a powerful tool for creating positive change in local and global communities. Getting students involved in that is motivating, meaningful, and impactful to all. 

Art is rich with the potential to change lives. These 8 goals shape my approach to teaching:

1. Promote community engagement & social change through art

2. Foster peer relationships & community through collaborative art

3. Build an inclusive art classroom environment where every student feels welcome, safe, respected, and cared for

4. Help students’ develop their self-identity through comprehensive, involved, meaningful, and thought-provoking projects

5. Foster creativity and imagination through open-ended art projects

6. Develop students’ sense of success and confidence through effective teaching, and assessment based on universal design for learning.

7. Always maintain high expectations for every student.

8. Explore other cultures and stories through art, including those of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples.