Introduction

Hi Everyone!

I just finished my second year of teaching and I'm so excited start my new journey in this program! I am from Uniontown, PA and was lucky enough to find a job in my hometown upon graduating from college. In my free time I love to go hiking with my fiance (am I the only one who feels like a total weirdo when saying that word?) and our Great Dane, Enzo! I also tend to keep myself busy with acrylic and oil paintings. I receive a lot of pet portrait commissions and have some work displayed in the Key Largo Art Gallery in Key Largo, F

I went to Penn State for my undergrad and completed my student teaching at two different placements in Pittsburgh. I now teach K-5 art at two different elementary schools in Laurel Highlands School District. I've learned so much just from my short time of being an art educator, but I've definitely missed the challenges and discussions that come with pursuing a degree. Besides wanting to push myself and bring more meaning to my lessons, I need an additional 24 credits to receive my permanent (or Level II) teaching certification and thought it would be a great idea to do so by pursuing a masters degree.

I work in an a rural area that has large populations of low income students and families. That being said, I find myself passionate about wanting to help and build my students up. I would be interested in researching community building through the arts.