 Tina has taught art for ten years. She is a member of Harford County's Art Curriculum and Art Assessement committees, and received her Bachelor's and Masters Degrees from Frostburg State University.
How has the way you teach changed over the years? What lessons have you learned?
New experiences, children, mentoring student interns, and curriculum modifications are some of various elements that continue to enhance my teaching style. I have become more involved with home-school connections in my art class, and I have learned that not every learner is the same and each child continues to surprise me with their capabilities each year. I have also learned that as educators we play a critical role in our students' lives and their dreams.
What advice would you give to a teacher who's starting their first year and feels overwhelmed?
The first years are both extremely stressful and rewarding for first-time teachers, and the best advice I could give to these new educators is to ask questions and reach out to seasoned teachers in their buildings. They are the best resources for lesson planning, curriculum alignment, discipline advice, and acting as sounding boards during those overwhelming moments.
What do you think the key has been to your success as a teacher?
The keys to my success in the classroom are collaborating with other educators, providing a variety of art experiences so all children in my room have some level of success, and being passionate about art and sharing that passion with my students.
|