As a teaching artist, I aim to help young people develop a greater sense of their own agency, an increased ability to think from multiple perspectives and a flourishing love of learning.
I believe that integrating visual arts learning into curricula helps all students thrive by:
– making learning visible through the construction of artifacts that evince understanding
– providing a voice or entry point for all learners through multiple media and methods of expression
– breaking down our artificial barriers between subjects, concepts and intelligences
– giving students access to the infinite and sublime
Ages: pre-k-12
Settings: inclusive classrooms
Subjects: all, I have experience with 1st grade Social Studies, 2nd grade Reading, 3rd grade Writing and Social Studies, 10th and 12th grade Environmental Science and Food Justice, 5th grade History and Reading
Collaboration with teachers: After our initial planning meeting, I continually check in with teachers to ensure that our arts integrated work supports all students and enriches the areas of study on which they are focused. This often requires adaptation and flexibility.
Classroom Management: I believe that authentic engagement solves most management issues. I expect students to be present, respectful and kind.
Through our work together, teachers get to see strengths in their students that might not otherwise be as apparent.
“I appreciate your work with my students — I get to see another side of them.”
– Yasmina Rhodes, 3rd grade teacher at Ellison Parks Elementary
“The students are taking ownership of the project and leadership roles, which is something they often struggle with. They are really engaged and talking about science and the environment outside of class. Their investment in the project is palpable.”
– Anna Golden, 10th and 12th grade Environmental Science Teacher
Students see learning from different angles and through different experiences, helping them to discover new ways of engaging, questioning and experiencing each another and the world around them.
More about Willa:
– Visual Arts Teacher – 4 years in a public school and a charter school
– Masters of Education, Arts in Education -Harvard Graduate School of Education
– Visual Artist – painting, drawing, sculpture