I am currently teaching Art Education at Millersville University. I teach an Art Integration course for Education majors. In a nutshell, it teaches them how to equitably use the visual arts as a tool in the regular education classroom, alongside math, science, social studies and English Language Arts. I also supervise Art Education student teachers, observing them multiple times throughout their student teaching placements, and working with them to successfully earn their K-12 Pennsylvania teaching certification.

I had the honor to teach Kindergarten to fifth grade art at Union Canal Elementary School in the Cornwall Lebanon School District from 2007-2013. During this time teaching at Union Canal, I rewrote the K-5 curriculum, coached groups of 5th grade art students to develop and exhibit a body of artwork, as well as completing my Masters degree in Art Education from Kutztown University. Being part of a school of who cared deeply for it’s students was a life-changing experience for me as an educator.

During the time in between teaching at Union Canal & beginning my position with Millersville University, I decided to spend more time at home with my two children while teaching private art lessons out of my home studio, developing a body of my own artwork, and volunteering as the Art Educator and Art Track director for Camp Rock, a summer arts camp at Mission Church. In 2019 I was hired as an adjunct professor at MU.

Teaching at Millersville University as been such an invaluable experience. As a supervisor, I have the opportunity to see many art classrooms and the variety of ways they function. As a professor teaching Art Integration, I have increased in my passion for and understanding of the importance of art in learning: not just in the art classroom but in the regular education classroom. The arts provide natural differentiation, higher engagement and excitement, and help develop critical thinking and 21st Century skills.

I love art, and I think everyone should have the chance to love it, too.