Now in my 40th year here at Gobles I have seen a lot of changes come and go... one thing that remains constant is the gratification I get when someone realizes that they can draw!  Having been the high school art teacher all of these years has allowed me to come into contact with thousands of young people who learn to enjoy drawing and being creative.

The Gobles High School art program is designed to give the student a good foundation in color, design, and drawing at the Art I level.  Art II is focused on media exploration (pencil, charcoal, pastels, pen & ink, oil painting, watercolor, calligraphy, carving, etc).  Art III encourages the student to explore other mediums, to mix media, and to develop personal interests in art.  Art IV is usually spent creating a personal portfolio, investigating potential careers in art, and continuing to develop artistic style and additional skills.  I am proud to say that I have had art students go on to be successful at Savannah College of Art and Design (Georgia), Pratt Institute (New York City), Kendall College of Art and Design (Grand Rapids), Colombia College (Chicago), Center for Creative Studies (Detroit), and Findlay College (Ohio), to name a few.   

In addition to teaching HS art, I have taught art at the MS, 6th, and 5th grade levels.  I also have an English degree which has allowed me to teach American Literature, Creative Writing, 9th grade English, and many other MS English classes. I taught Sexuality Education and Career Education for many years, as well.  I received my teaching degree from Western Michigan University and my Master's from Marygrove College. 

I have also had the pleasure of working with students in many extra curricular activities.  I did the Claw Yearbook and/or the Homelink for 23 years, I directed about 26 spring drama productions, I've advised (or co-advised) the National Honor Society for 40 years, and I've coached the Quiz Bowl team for 40 years.  I created the SAC League Quiz Bowl program 18 years ago and I continue to serve as Coordinator.  I was on the committee that designed the PRIDE program here in Gobles, I served as the S.A.D.D. adviser for several years, and have been a member of various parent/teacher organizations.  I am Quality School certified. 

I have been honored with the Van Buren County Educational Hero Award and our local PRIDE Teacher of the Year Award, but my greatest awards are the cards of thanks from previous students.

My husband, Todd, and I have been married for over 30 years and live in the countryside where I enjoy being outside with my pets and gardening. We also enjoy being with our many family members and friends, antiquing, and going Jeeping! 

Gobles Online Art Show and Archives 

Art Standards for the State of Michigan