TEACHING AT A CATHOLIC school is truly special. For me, it’s not just a job; it’s a calling, a community and a place that feels like home. Every day, I am grateful to teach Art and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) from TK through eighth grade, and I believe God has placed me right where I belong.
I’ve loved art since I was a child. I was always the kid with a sketchbook, drawing whenever I had the chance. I still remember my childhood art classes and how my teacher challenged and encouraged me, making me feel like my work mattered.
Art became my safe place, my joy and my way of understanding the world. Even then, I didn’t just love making art; I enjoyed sharing creativity with others. I saw how art could help people feel seen, understood and inspired. Now I get to teach what I love, and it fills my heart in ways that are hard to put into words. In our art room, students create, explore, imagine and discover.
They learn skills like drawing, painting, collaging, sculpting and design, but they also learn something more important: how to be brave. They take risks, try new things, make mistakes and see that real growth comes from the process. In my SEL lessons, I teach the standards through the Fruits of the Spirit. We talk about what they mean, how to apply them in our lives, whether at school, at home or with friends. I enjoy using everyday classroom moments to help students practice these skills in meaningful ways. When students feel frustrated, face a challenge, or have a conflict with a friend, we work through it together: pause, breathe, use gentle words, ask for help, try again and encourage one another. My goal is for SEL to be something students live out every day, not just something we discuss. Teaching at a Catholic school is even more meaningful because faith is part of everything we do. We focus on the whole child: mind, heart and spirit, while practicing gratitude, forgiveness, compassion and community. Teaching here has also deepened my own faith. I’m a lifelong learner, and I truly enjoy learning alongside my students. They inspire me every day with their funny stories, bright ideas and kind hearts.
This school is very special to me. It feels like home. I’m thankful I followed God’s plan, and I feel grateful every day to teach in a place filled with faith, love and purpose.