Art is everywhere and covers a scope larger than any other subject in the world. Art extends beyond artists, it is a voice to be shared and listened to. I am inspired by how far the grasp art has on the world in all situations of political, social, emotional, and educational existence. Art connects a world full of different languages and historical backgrounds. We all have art as a part of our history, it is what unites us and it is how we communicate the way we see things and it is a driving force that is central to all existence. Successful students in my classroom are analytical students who question their world. This type of thinking prepares them to become confident in their ideas and empowers students to take ownership of their learning.

Teaching is a profession that teaches all other professions. I want to share an inspirational quote that has stuck with me from Sir Ken Robinson. He said, “it’s education that’s meant to take us into this future that we can’t grasp.” Kids are the future; their minds, ambitions, dreams, and inspirations are going to shape the world. It is my job as a teacher to push my students to do what I know they are capable of achieving. I want to foster a safe space in my classroom where anyone can come in and feel heard and confident. I am a teacher and a life-long student. My students will inspire and push me as much as I do them. Through student choice and collaboration, I provide a framework in my lessons for success, not a strict path students must follow to meet my expectations of them. My students make their own goals and expand on ideas that they find interesting based on the concepts I want them to explore.

I am a compassionate and organized individual. This influences the atmosphere in my classroom and the type of work my students will produce. Each step of their projects will be backed with thinking and planning to ensure comprehension of the skills, various techniques, and an abundance of materials students will be working with. My teaching style is student centered. What the students need, my lessons will reflect, whether it be the content, the way the information is provided, or any other instructional and emotional support. Student reflection, self-assessment, peer feedback, and small group discussions are a few ways I measure student learning. Through written and spoken discourse, I can access students' implementation of academic language and understanding; talking is learning.
​
I am a lifelong learner and relationships and connections inspire me. I look forward to crossing paths with many young learners and adults throughout my career that will expand my understanding of the world and introduce me to their perspectives and experiences. I want to give the gift of art to my students just as I have been gifted by my teachers. I plan to build relationships and connections, and to inspire my students to grow and express themselves. My goal is to create self empowered creative people. I want my students to analyze and respond to the world around them and find their place in the world. My class will be the first step in inspiring my students to figure out who they are and who they want to become.
-Elisiana Terracciano