25 years of Community & School Projects
Have you ever been so passionate about something that you wanted to explore all kinds of new things, even when you had no idea how to do it? Embracing the unknown can be daunting, but I believed in diving headfirst into new adventures, figuring things out as I went along, and learning in the process. I aimed to embody this spirit of exploration as an example for my students, encouraging them to take risks and develop a lifelong passion for learning both in and out of the classroom.
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Embarking on a journey of community artwork has always been about the excitement of uncharted experiences and a deep passion for enriching lives through artistic contribution. In the mid-90s, the vibrant colors of a fresh-painted mural began to reshape not just the walls of our community, but also the minds and hearts of the young artists involved. As a new educator, I was deeply committed to extending learning beyond the classroom, fostering an environment where art became a tool for empowerment and community engagement. The decision to have my students collaborate on murals ignited their creativity and nurtured invaluable leadership skills. Through engaging in larger-than-life projects students expanded their skills and formed bonds that translate into trust, lifelong friendships, and cherished memories. They've learned to value collaboration, honing their abilities to listen to others’ ideas, support each other, and work collectively toward common goals.
