Jennifer D.

Experience Summary

I have both my degree and my Masters in Art Education. I have worked six years in public education, six years of which I worked with high school classes of all ability levels and four of which I also worked with middle school students. I also coached Cross Country five years of those six years. I have also volunteered in after school programs and I have interacted with students that had disabilities. These students often enjoyed the art-making the most. The importance of Art in the curriculum is crucial and creates a well-rounded education.

Teaching Style

I believe in Art History being implemented in some of the classes, but I know that students also benefit from a hands-on approach to learning Art. I often introduce a new concept and touch on some of the steps. Most importantly, I often show an example of the finished outcome. Students then have at least a vague concept of what they are working toward. We then take the project(s) step by step and guided practice is used at first and then independent practice continues as I continue to help each student directly. If the session is one-on-one, I will work closely with the student but will only suggest changes and offer ideas occasionally and if asked. Students often need a chance to use their own creativity to thrive and make projects individual.

My Hobbies

I enjoy making my own artwork (often working with drawing, namely portraiture). I also enjoy running, spending time with family and my dogs, friends, and exploring Philadelphia. Originally from North Carolina, I enjoy all that Philadelphia has to offer. I prefer the summer, so I am not looking forward to the winter months, as I did not enjoy them a great deal last winter.

Other Comments

I love teaching Art and I have been lost without that job. The jobs are harder to get here than they were where I was, and I miss the job security that I left. I enjoyed waking up daily and teaching what I loved and what I personally loved to do, and the adjustment has been difficult. I want to at very least give someone else the appreciation for Art that can be seen all around. Cultivating the same love I have for Art would feel rewarding and exciting due to the profound effects it can have on another person. Often undervalued in this society, especially in current day, giving one more person the ability to see it and even create it would be an amazing experience I have missed.

All Subjects I Tutor

• Creative Arts

• Drawing

• Painting

• Sculpting