Visual Art

Vision Statement

Through the study of art, students are challenged to become independent thinkers to foster their creative minds. Our goal as a Visual Art department is to promote visual literacy using critical thinking and problem solving skills. These skills help students deepen their understanding of themselves while developing awareness of others and the world around them. Our teaching methodology focuses on process, experimentation, and the appreciation of art. Students are encouraged to experience creating through risk taking and the application of 21st century skills.

MEet Our Faculty

Mr. Stephen Bono

Mr. Bono grew up in Bayside, Queens, and now lives in Bergenfield with his wife and son. He studied visual arts at SUNY Purchase, where he explored a wide range of disciplines, including sculpture, drawing, video art and welding. After earning his undergraduate degree, he went on to complete his MFA in Filmmaking at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where he had the opportunity to learn from filmmakers like Spike Lee and Stephen Soderbergh. After graduation, he worked for Lee on several projects and spent the next 15 years building a career in film and television, with credits on shows that aired for networks like PBS, HULU, Amazon and Showtime.

Mrs. Kate Capizzi

My name is Kate Capizzi. I am the Digital Arts teacher here at Westwood Regional Middle School. This is my fourth year here in Westwood, but I have been teaching for eighteen years overall. I received my Bachelors of Science in Visual Arts Education PreK-12th with an emphasis in Graphic Design, and a Masters Degree in Instructional Design and Technology, and hold my Supervisor Certificate. I am so happy to be here teaching within the Westwood Regional School District and being able to share my love of the arts with your children.

Ms. Caitlin Gold

Ms. Gold teaches Art at George and Washington Elementary Schools. She is currently on leave through November 2025. Bio and photo coming soon!

Mrs. Pamela Guenther-Duffus

Pamela Guenther-Duffus is a passionate artist and educator with over 25 years of experience in the field. For the past 24 years, she has been a dedicated member of the faculty at Westwood Regional High School, where she teaches Drawing, Painting, Honors Art, and AP Studio Art and advises the National Art Honor Society and Art Club. Pamela specializes in creative problem-solving and choice-based learning, empowering her students to explore their artistic voices and develop their skills. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her AP Studio Art classes, where her students consistently achieve scores above both the state and national averages. Through her innovative teaching methods, Pamela inspires a love of art and fosters a dynamic learning environment that encourages creativity and personal expression.

Mrs. Amy Grossman

Mrs. Amy Grossman graduated from Kutztown University with a BFA in Communication Design. After graduation, she was an Art Director and Art Supervisor in various Medical Communications/Pharmaceutical advertising companies in NJ and NYC. She also worked freelance graphic design in her own company. She was encouraged by the many educators in her family to take her talents to the classroom. Amy has been teaching graphic design and art since 2011. This will be Amy’s fourth year at Westwood High School. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, creating mosaics and traveling.

Mrs. Michele Keller

With 15 years of experience in education, Michele Keller brings her passion and expertise to the classroom at Westwood Regional High School. She teaches Digital Photography and Jewelry Making and, in addition to her role as an educator, she is currently pursuing her master's degree to become a better educator. Before she began teaching, Michele worked as a professional photographer. This background, combined with her dedication to exploring various artistic mediums like metalsmithing, allows her to bring a wealth of knowledge to her students. Michele is committed to creating a vibrant environment where students feel encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and explore new possibilities for artistic expression. Through her innovative lesson concepts, she inspires creativity and exploration in the arts.

Ms. Lynda Panno (WRMS)

Ms. Panno is one of the Visual Arts teachers at Westwood Regional Middle School. Lynda is in her 21st year teaching in WWRSD. This school year, she will be teaching Visual Art 6-8, Digital Art 6 and Animation 8. Ms. Panno also co-advises the Art Club with Mrs. Capizzi at the middle school.

Mrs. Barbara PortellI

Mrs. Portelli teaches Art at Berkeley and Brookside Elementary Schools. She has an undergraduate degree from the School of Visual Arts in Illustration, and a masters degree in Painting from Kean University. She also holds her supervisiors certification.

Mrs. Michelle Stoute (WRHS)

Mrs. Stoute teaches Introduction to Fine Arts, Introduction to Digital Arts, and 3D Art at Westwood Regional High School. She also co-advises the Art Club. Click here to view here faculty website.

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