
The value of education is something that I have understood since a very young age. My parents made a commitment early in my life to do everything within their power to instill in me a love of learning. It was through them that I gained an understanding of the importance of hard work and dedication. I use this passion every day to continue to grow and evolve as a teacher.
Throughout my life I’ve had the opportunity to learn from so many outstanding art educators. The first was my father, Joe Clark. He taught art in the Wisconsin Rapids School District for 30 years. Visiting his classroom and working along side him in his art studio played a crucial role in my growth as an artist. My art teacher growing up, Amy Noonan, has had a lasting impact on the teacher I am today. When I was in college my art instructors, mentors and cooperating teachers were nothing short of exceptional. It was in college that my supervisor Marcia Thompson introduced me to Jeanne Arenz. It was teaching along side her that I discovered TAB (Teaching for Artistic Behavior) and I’ve never looked back. It has become such an integral part of my teaching pedagogy and I am forever thankful for that.
The arts are such a vital part of the development of every person. It its my hope that I can leave a lasting impression on my students the way that my teachers have done for me.