Thompson Valley High School

My journey as a student teacher at Thompson Valley High School in Loveland was a deeply transformative experience. As a drawing major with a background in ceramics, I was placed in two extraordinary spaces: Mr. Matthew Crawford's drawing classroom and Mrs. Robinson’s sculpture and ceramics classroom. This beautiful high school already held a special place in my heart, as my daughter had performed her graceful dances on its auditorium stage, gifting me cherished memories of this space. Returning here for my student teaching, after completing my high school practicum here, felt like a full-circle moment.

Both classrooms brimmed with creativity and inspiration—vibrant spaces where anyone could feel the urge to pick up a brush or mold clay into a new form. Mr. Crawford and Mrs. Robinson, as talented artists and dedicated educators, left me in awe with their attention to detail and the care they poured into their own art and teaching. Before stepping into this role, I had individual meetings with both of them. Their warmth and guidance eased any anxieties I had, setting the foundation for an enriching journey ahead.

From the very first day, I was surprised and honored by how readily both teachers entrusted me with their classrooms. Right from the start, I took full responsibility for a Drawing I class and a Ceramics I class. In addition, I co-taught Drawing II, Painting I, Painting II, and Metalsmithing I. Both mentors remarked that teaching seemed to come naturally to me, a sentiment that fueled my confidence.

At the heart of my teaching approach was mindfulness. Each class began with a quiet moment of reflection—a time to breathe deeply and center oneself. I often reminded my students:
"This is not merely a space to complete another art assignment. This is a sacred space—a sanctuary for exploring the possibilities of your life. Here, you can dream freely, envision your future without limits, and uncover the magic of what can be."

Thompson Valley High School hosts a diverse student body, representing a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds. During my time there, I witnessed incredible resilience and creativity from students who carried heavy burdens—trauma, challenging family histories, or brushes with the justice system. Seeing these young individuals feel safe, heard, and valued in my classroom was among the most profound moments of my teaching journey.

Art became a vehicle for transformation. Students unlocked their potential and expanded their horizons. They began to see the world not only as it is but as it could be, through their imagination and creativity.

And what lies ahead for them, for all of us?

"Reimagining the world. Only that." — Arundhati Roy