Some of the best things happen when we embrace a new challenge.
There is absolutely nothing "easy" about teaching art, especially when working with middle school age students. With classes as large as 32 for five periods a day and three different grade level preps we need to be fearless and well prepared!
A few years ago I was told that I would have a student teacher from the University of Maryland under my supervision for a year. I tried and failed to avoid this... I REALLY, REALLY did not embrace the idea of MORE work, but I reluctantly agreed.
And so it was, on a hot August day, Krista Tretick arrived at my classroom. Krista, I soon learned, was an accomplished artist and musician and mother of three nearly grown children. She was, as it turned out, well prepared with a large notebook of possible lessons and a level of patience I can only dream of. She helped me organize my room, took extensive notes, asked all the right questions and then in due time, she kicked me out of my classroom and taught my classes. I wasn't prepared for any of this. Had I only known!
I have so much admiration for Krista, who like me, started teaching art as a late-out-of-the-gate career. Krista improved my lessons, reduced my stress level and renewed my faith in myself as a teacher. She and I have remained friends. I am so THANKFUL for that year with her. She was truly a gift to me and my students.
Krista is currently teaching high school. I hope they know how lucky they are to have her. She just finished her Masters at MICA and I can only imagine what great things are ahead for her and her students. To my fellow art teachers - next time you are asked to take on a student teacher, fear not. Embrace the challenge. The experience will truly amaze you!
Krista, second from right, pictured with her fellow art teacher graduates at the University of Maryland.