My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a creative, inclusive, and community-oriented environment where students are encouraged to explore, reflect, and develop their unique artistic voices. Drawing from the Eight Studio Habits of Mind—develop craft, engage and persist, envision, express, observe, reflect, stretch and explore, and understand art worlds—I emphasize a hands-on, student-centered approach grounded in Vygotsky’s "Zone of Proximal Development." I believe in scaffolding skills, enabling students to build technical proficiency before progressing to conceptual and expressive work.

My approach is deeply influenced by Viktor Lowenfeld’s emphasis on creative self-expression and the importance of developing the whole child. I draw from Olivia Gude’s principles of Postmodern Art Education, focusing on cultural and personal narratives, and encourage students to challenge dominant art histories. Mary Ann Stankiewicz’s work on art education as a discipline informs my commitment to integrating historical and contemporary contexts into the curriculum, fostering critical thinking and visual literacy.

My journey as an educator began in 2016 when I started my undergraduate career as a Visual Arts Education major at SUNY New Paltz. Over four years, I learned about human development, scaffolding, differentiating instruction, and designing effective lesson plans using the National Core Arts Standards. Observing art classes at four different schools and student-teaching a high school sculpture and ceramics class solidified my passion for teaching. In May 2020, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Visual Arts Education and received my New York State teaching license for grades K-12. I’ve since taught ceramics at summer camps and local studios. These roles deepened my understanding of community-building, adaptability, and the importance of fostering individuality. As a graduate student at Penn State University, I had the opportunity to teach introductory ceramics courses to undergraduate non-art majors. Guiding students through foundational techniques while encouraging personal expression taught me how to balance structure with creative freedom. Adapting to a wide range of skill levels and interests reinforced my belief in student-centered learning and the importance of meeting individuals where they are. Having now earned my MFA in Ceramics, I carry with me not only a deepened studio practice but also a renewed commitment to education. I truly believe that teaching is not just something I enjoy; it’s what I’m meant to do.

My teaching style is grounded in building relationships and encouraging students to explore their unique identities through art. At Haven Art Studio and Island Pottery, I designed projects that emphasized self-expression, problem-solving, and community building, fostering confidence and growth in young learners. I believe in nurturing individuality while celebrating the shared experience of making art in a communal space.

As an educator, I strive to create a supportive and respectful environment where students feel empowered to express themselves freely. I incorporate works from diverse artists, ensuring students see themselves reflected in the curriculum. Individual needs are prioritized, and I actively adapt my teaching strategies, such as modifying techniques for students with disabilities or offering personalized support.

I aim to build a classroom environment where students feel seen, heard, and valued. Through activities that encourage self-reflection, peer collaboration, and community engagement, I cultivate a sense of belonging and mutual respect. My goal is for students to leave my classroom not only as skilled artists but as confident, empathetic, and reflective individuals who understand the importance of art in expressing identity and engaging with the world.

Teaching art is profoundly rewarding, and I am committed to sharing my experience, passion, and dedication with young artists, fostering a love for lifelong learning, community, and self-expression.