Teaching Experience
My recent thesis project was about creating a methodology for art teachers to integrate technology in their curriculum. Using the museum setting to inspire and guide good criticism and art making practices, teachers can bring the gallery to life for students by way of interactive technologies. I implemented my study by teaching JMU pre-service teachers how to create and use these technologies during the Spring semester of 2014.
Below is a quote from Chapter One of my Thesis.
Below is a quote from Chapter One of my Thesis.
"The idea for introducing museums to students came about in my own classroom when I was visiting the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. I was walking around in the East Wing, and happened upon a Henri Matisse exhibit. Matisse’s cutouts were displayed floor to ceiling and were breathtaking. I smiled instantly thinking about the recent lesson I had just started with my second graders inspired by Matisse's work. We had just finished a book about Matisse creating the “Tree of Life” windows for the Chapel of the Rosary in Nice, France. Thinking about that book and how my students had recently been inspired to cut out beautiful organic shapes, I stood there with my camera asking myself, “how can I bring this experience back to my kids on the Eastern Shore?” I knew that the majority of my students had never set foot in a gallery or art museum and wouldn’t have any idea of what it feels like to be standing where I was standing- humbled by this artist’s work. This is a feeling I know well and an experience I wish for all of my students."
Nandua Middle School
This will be a great year at NMS! Click the button below to visit the art website!
Pungoteague Elementary School
Teaching on the Eastern Shore of Virginia has been more than I ever thought it would be. As an artist I am inspired by the surrounding nature
and as a teacher I am inspired by my community.
Art Teacher at Pungoteague Elementary School
2009-2013
and as a teacher I am inspired by my community.
Art Teacher at Pungoteague Elementary School
2009-2013
Click below to learn more about Accomack County Public Schools
I also have experience leading and teaching a History Camp in historic Onancock. This summer camp for students aged 9-13 is a day camp where they explore Ker Place, home of the Eastern Shore Historic Society. Campers read a book, "The Hidden Key" written by my friend, Karen Tweedie, as well as spend the week doing scavenger hunts in downtown, art projects inspired by early 19th century work, and learn about being a kid during the early 1800s. I taught this camp during my first three years on the Eastern Shore. I also am an occasional docent for Ker Place. Click below to visit site.