The start of the 2018-2019 school year is bringing about some big changes.. I’m extremely excited to announce that I will be moving over to teach Visual Art this year! This decision is bittersweet, because of the students in my design classes– and also because of my deep rooted commitment to PRP’s design program. My design students have been with me throughout their time in high school, and they are dear to me! The good news is that the amazing Ms. Shelia Marable will be moving into my room in the Tech Building, and taking the reins for the design pathway. It couldn’t be in better hands! We will continue to collaborate and have many plans for combined art + design activities. An added bonus is that many of my students will continue to be in my art classes for some of their electives.

There’s never a good time to move to a different subject area; however, those who know me best should understand. I’ve been juggling my love of both art and design for my entire career. In fact, my design work always gravitated towards my passion for art. Through my design studio, Montage, I designed materials for a client base of arts groups, museums, galleries and artists. After a successful design career of over twenty years, I was ready to embrace a new challenge: teaching.

In 2009, I completed my Masters degree (to teach Art). I applied for an Art teacher position at PRP, but instead landed the most amazing job…to build a brand new design program at PRP.  I’ve enjoyed the specific challenges of building and running the Apple labs, engaging students in real-world projects, helping kids find success in leadership organizations and other competitions, and connecting them to industry partners for future job opportunities. This role has taken it’s toll on me, though. Staying on top of the latest tech, staying current with industry trends and maintaining connections with industry was leaving little energy for the creative hobbies I enjoy so much. Painting, drawing, printmaking, photography…as well as having time with family.

So, when PRP Visual Art teacher and colleague Cheryl Wilhoit announced her retirement in May, I realized that moving to art was an opportunity for me to step back into my creative “happy” place. It’s still a challenge because everything is different and I’m learning so many new mediums and art processes. Teaching art is messy and requires a whole different set of classroom management tools. But, it’s a labor of love for me. I already feel so much at home and plan to continue with my usual intense classroom pace…just without as much technology, and testing requirements. Messier, hands-on, more creative, and true to my creative self. See you in the Art room!