Art teacher, Wellington Elementary

The 21^st century holds unique and wonderful challenges for each student and teacher. For our children to become the leaders of tomorrow, we must all rise to a new standard of excellence that is built on creative thinking.

As an art educator, I facilitate meaningful learning experiences that enable students to think critically and creatively about the world, to understand other perspectives and to discover their own sense of self. This allows me to introduce students to diverse aspects of life, which might open a door they never knew existed.

Art is more than crayons, paint and excitement. It is a way for students to communicate, tell stories and create something of substance and beauty. Art provides opportunities to make cross-curricular connections, solve problems, inspire others and give back to the community. It enables students to see life through another’s eyes, let go of stressors and get lost, invent something new or feel free to try something new. It's a way to learn about different cultures, gain self-esteem, express feelings and become an individual.

Art is a mechanism for change in the 21^st century.