About Me 

I have always wanted to be two things, an artist, and a teacher, fortunately now I can be both.  As an art teacher, I can influence and educate the next generation of artists.

My Teaching Philosophy

My philosophical approach to teaching art education begins with a focus on the art but an emphasis on student creativity.  As an artist myself I love learning about art, trying new techniques and mediums, and getting out of my comfort zone, however, not all of my students will have the same interest or skill level in my subject and so it is critical that my students recognize other lessons being taught in the classroom.  I want my students to learn how to be risk-takers in life as well as in their artistic choices.  I hope to inspire them to think outside the box and look deeply within themselves while creating work.  My intention is to drive them to be confident artists and individuals so that they are better prepared to experience what is outside their comfort zone in the classroom and in life.  

I intend to be a child-centered art teacher by being attentive to my student’s interests, skill levels, as well as their concerns. My course will focus on my students' ideas so that they can build on their personal background and uniqueness as artists. As an art teacher, I will have the privilege of coaching children through their artistic process while encouraging their ideas.  I will focus on encouraging problem-solving and critical thinking in my classroom, which can be translated into other subjects. The lessons will be relatable to them so they can grow in their understanding and appreciation of the art world.  It will be essential to stress the importance of cultural and historical context for artistic works so that my students can expand their minds and their curiosity.  

As a teacher, I will invite my students to pursue their own artistic endeavors while modeling my own story as an artist. It is crucial that I am honest with my students about my skills and my shortcomings as an artist and encourage them to be just as transparent with me.  Teachers are given the ability to guide by example and by promoting my own work and self-expression students will feel more comfortable to follow suit.  

I want my students to understand and analyze their own art as well as the art of their peers in guided critiques that will teach the importance of community, and teamwork. My students will be educated on art history, or more importantly, art as a universal language, and how to interpret that language for themselves. Additionally, they will learn how to appropriately discuss different viewpoints on artwork.  

Above all I hope to be a teacher who is fair and kind, and that my students will leave my class with more confidence and life skills.  

Kora Burke