Hi, my name is Jamie Summers! I am an art education major at Indiana University Indianapolis (IUI). Welcome to my ePortfolio! This space is designed to showcase who I am as a teacher and the unique journey I bring to the classroom. Here's what you’ll find:
You’ll find my Teaching Philosophy, where I share my vision for nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression among students.
In Field Experience, you'll see photos from a few of my teaching experiences around the Indianapolis area.
I’ve also included Sample Lesson Plans, written and taught by me, which emphasize accessibility and student-centered learning.
You’ll find my Advocating for Middle School Project, where I share my vision advocating for middle school students and fostering their academic and social development in the arts.
Thank you for visiting my portfolio and taking the time to learn more about the passion and purpose I bring to the classroom!
I am a wife and a proud mother of an 8-year-old. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Art History and Photography from Indiana University–Bloomington in 2004. Following graduation, I spent ten years working in fundraising at The Art Institute of Chicago, and later built a successful career as a wedding photographer here in Indiana. Now, I have returned to college to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming an art teacher, combining my passion for creativity and education.
My professional experience at The Art Institute of Chicago, combined with the profound journey of becoming a mother, has laid a strong foundation for my new career as an art educator. I am deeply committed to the transformative, healing, and inspiring power of art. As a teacher, my goal is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where every student feels welcomed, supported, and confident in expressing their authentic selves. Guided by a philosophy that balances structure with creative freedom, I prioritize the artistic process over the final product, fostering a classroom culture that values experimentation, critical thinking, and personal exploration in every project.