Experience Summary
When considering a major area of study in college I was pulled between my two loves- Art and English. Though my ability to draw and paint suggested Art would be the natural choice, my love of reading and writing, and my achievement of the highest verbal SAT score in my high school class, presented English as an equally attractive alternative. It was after completing two semesters of a basic Liberal Arts curriculum that I decided to major in Art. In addition to the studio classes required by this emphasis, I studied and wrote papers for classes in English, History, Art History, Religion, and Philosophy. My writing, whether creative or involving research, consistently earned high marks.
After returning to school to earn a BFA in Illustration and working as a children's book illustrator, among other assignments, I find myself once again writing. It is with a great deal of pleasure that I have written and am now designing a series of books for pre-schoolers.
In addition to working as a self-employed illustrator I have worked as a substitute teacher in California. English, History, Psychology, and Art are among subjects I've taught. Perhaps because one of my sons has a learning disability, I've also been drawn to teaching a number of Special Education classes. Through teaching those classes I've learned that I am patient and effective when working with students who have challenges. At present, I am working as a substitute teacher for the Clark County School District.
Teaching Style
Of course it is the goal of the teacher to help the student learn the facts, terms, theories, and skills associated with the subject being taught. Through experience I've learned that the method of teaching will necessarily vary from student to student. Some students will need to be gently kept on task, while others will require a great deal of positive reinforcement. But with all students it is important to balance questioning/listening time, to clarify and explain if necessary, and to gauge the student's comprehension.
I believe that we humans are born with an innate delight in learning (witness any toddler) and that restoring the feeling that learning is an adventure encourages and energizes students.