Introduction

Upon receiving a BFA in Art, the original plan was to continue on with an MFA and pursue teaching as a career. However, life took a different direction and I put my dream on hold. Originally it was supposed to be for a couple of years, but that turned into decades. I found myself stuck in retail middle management and my plans became a distant memory. My wife helped me understand that it was time to pursue my passion and dreams again. It was obvious that was to become an art teacher. Therefore it is my dream and passion to teach young minds, giving them the tools to bring their art to life while making a difference in my community.

My journey began online at the University of Florida where I received a Master of Arts in Art Education. It was a great program that taught me a lot and would put me in a position where I could begin teaching, but without practical experience, I could be setting myself up to fail. This is why I pursued a second Master of Arts in Secondary Education at Grand Canyon University because it included practicum hours in the classroom and 15 weeks of student teaching. Being able to turn theory into practice has helped me grow as an educator, gave me more confidence, and actually increased my passion to teach art.

It might not be the traditional route to becoming an art teacher for the first time, but along with life experience I know I have a lot to offer students. In working with people I was lucky to obtain skills at managing situations. It is a goal to use these skills and experience to ensure the students know not to ever give up on their dreams and happiness. I believe this makes me a highly desirable candidate to help young people grow both academically and as people.