It is August and my students are heading back to school. This time of year often brings up mixed emotions as I am not heading back into my art room in the public schools. I've taught art for 30 years in both private and public schools, elementary, junior high and high school. 24 years ago, an art teacher friend of mine asked if I wanted to teach one of her students private art lessons. I happily agreed and little did I realize it was opening a door and moving me to where I needed to be! I would teach art at school all day, come home, make my family dinner and teach a few lessons in my art studio in the evenings. 6 years ago, I left teaching in the schools and closed the door to my career as an art educator for schools.....but not closing the door to being an art teacher! I'm sure many are aware of teachers leaving the profession in droves, not because they don't love teaching kids. But, the climate in schools has changed dramatically with unsupportive administration, unrealistic expectations, work-life balance, inadequate compensation, toxic school climate, and the list goes on. Many think that teachers leave due to burn-out when the truth is that teachers have grown weary of being demoralized on a daily basis. I was pushed out as a veteran art teacher as my last district's policy was to prioritize budget savings over highly experienced, excellent teachers. So, in June 2019, I packed up all of my years of art teacher resources and belongings and said goodbye to being an art teacher for schools and celebrated the official opening of The Art Room! I met with a social media marketing team, wrote a business plan and launched The Art Room officially! Enrollment has grown tremendously and owning my own private art school has been the best! I work with highly creative, talented and gifted young artist students who are strong in the visual arts. My students are passionate about their art learning, dedicated to growing in their skills and LOVE being in The Art Room studio each week for lessons. The outpouring of support, encouragement and praise has only affirmed that this is exactly where I am called to be! Parents write letters and send texts telling me how much their child appreciates lessons at The Art Room, loves their time in the studio and what an great art teacher and inspiration I am for their young artist. So, while the school buses drive past my home, I am no longer nostalgic about going back into the classroom, but smiling and thrilled that I am not! This is my dream job, owning my own private school, which is a blessing in more ways that I can every adequately put into words.
Thanks for everyone who celebrated my 6 year anniversary (24 years total) of The Art Room!
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