Mari Lavin

I grew up in north Jersey and knew I wanted to be a visual artist when I was a freshman in high school.  I worked hard on creating a portfolio throughout my high school years and was excited to attend Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. I majored in painting and sculpture and loved the small art school feel in a big university environment, it was the best of both worlds for me.  After graduation I worked on my artwork and eventually decided to go through the alternate route program to obtain my teaching certification.  I love that my job allows me to create art all day, but I also love the relationships I get to build with students and watch them grow into proud artists.   I obtained my master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in administration/educational leadership, but I still love the classroom too much! 

I have been happily married for many years and blessed to have 3 beautiful daughters, Molly, Caitlin & Erin.  I understand the hectic life of raising children and the challenge balancing all of their activities.  High school can be stressful for all involved!  I also believe that art can create a happy place and create a sense of balance for individuals, so I encourage creativity.  I want my students to find their "Zen Place", "Relaxed Focus" or "Zone" when working in my classroom.

I really do enjoy teaching and creating art all day long, let's get to it!