Arts

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” –Thomas Merton

According to an article from the Education Commission of the States (ECS) website, the arts in education have shown to improve cognitive skills involved in reading, language development and mathematics, as well as develop problem solving, critical and creative thinking skills.

As if that weren’t enough, art is fun, and almost all students love it! I have taught art at all levels from pre-kindergarten through high school and community college. After so many years in education, I still never cease to be impressed at the creativity and originality that I see in my students even with projects and lessons that I have taught over and over.

While I have clear objectives in mind when I plan a lesson, I am often pleasantly surprised to see the results. Students often present a different viewpoint, and go in a whole new direction. That’s what makes my job as an art teacher so much fun, and why it continues to provide me with satisfaction and joy.

-Paula DeHaas