"Every Child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up."

Pablo Picasso

Visual and dramatic arts offers multiple opportunities for students to be artists. Eisenhower is a school where students are actively encouraged to participate in Speech Arts Festivals, Youth Arts Month Billboards, special activities such as The Trail of Tears simulation, school programs and plays, and art contests.

I love what the arts offer kids. The arts nurture self-reliance, creativity, initiative and teamwork - all qualities that are important in life and work.

One of the things I like best about being a teacher is when we can move a child from a situation in which he is not being successful to one in which he shines.

I teach the elements and principles of design: balance and color, the difference between shape and form, texture, and different kinds of line. We explore drawing and painting, dramatic interpretation of stories, and basic crafts such as pottery and stepping stones. I want to equip students so that they can apply art to enhance and enrich the rest of their school life.

Needs: wallpaper sample books, markers, old frames, scrap glass and mirrors, belt buckles, extra art supplies you may not be using at home.