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The Wisconsin Art Education Association celebrates excellence in our art classrooms. Art teachers provide so many opportunities for our young learners to showcase their skills and knowledge through the visual arts. Art educators foster artistic experiences for students to create, present, respond, and connect. During the school year, Wisconsin art educators are nominated for WAEA "Art Teacher of the Month." If you wish to nominate a Wisconsin art educator for Art Teacher of the Month, please submit your suggestion within the online form.
For questions, please contact [email protected]. |
Click each month to learn more about the WAEA Art Teacher of the Month.
January 2026
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Teacher: Sandy Guebard
School: Saint Bruno Parish School of Dousman, WI Sandy Guebard is a beacon of warmth and kindness, transforming her school's atmosphere into a nurturing learning environment. Her approach emphasizes instructional standards while celebrating the arts, creating a balanced space for students to thrive. Sandy's eagerness to collaborate makes her invaluable during concerts and special events. She seamlessly aligns her lessons with schoolwide themes, integrating them into the general education curriculum. Her flexibility and creativity add a unique layer of innovation to school activities. As a mentor, Sandy provides constructive feedback and serves as a role model for student teachers. Her recent collaboration involved attending the Art Convention in Pewaukee with a student teacher, highlighting her commitment to professional development and teamwork. Through her dedication, Sandy enriches the educational experience for students and fosters growth and creativity within the school community. Her passion for learning and collaboration makes her an invaluable asset to both students and colleagues. |
February 2026
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Teacher: Sarah Lambert
School/District/ City: Oriole Lane School , Mequon-Thiensville School District With her exceptional skills in curriculum design and extensive art knowledge, Sarah Ann Lambert creates a classroom environment that cherishes personal expression and the artistic process. Her projects captivate students through intricate, multi-step activities that connect contemporary artists with art history, allowing students to infuse their own identity into their work. The results are truly remarkable, showcasing the creativity of her elementary students. Sarah's dedication to positive community impact is evident in her recent organization of specialized professional development for her colleagues, offering inspiration and subject-specific insights. Her art shows are thoughtfully curated, highlighting students' work in the most beautiful and intentional ways. Sarah’s entire career has focused on researching and planning to maximize the impact of her art program. With a BFA in Ceramics and Art Education from UW-Milwaukee, she has been an elementary art teacher for 14 years and extends her passion to a community art studio during the summer. Residing in Wauwatosa, Sarah balances her professional commitments with being a devoted mother to her five-year-old daughter. Her efforts in art education continue to inspire, leaving a lasting impression on both her students and the broader community. |
March 2026
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Teacher: Jana Strobel
School/District/ City: Watertown High School, Watertown Unified School District Jana Strobel is a remarkable leader and educator, known for her unwavering dedication and spirit of collaboration. Her impact extends beyond Watertown High School, benefiting the entire community and the State of Wisconsin. Jana's commitment is evident as she volunteers year-round, even in the summer, going above and beyond for her profession. For five years, she co-chaired the Fall WAEA Art Education Conference, contributed graphic design for WAEA, and edited the statewide Art Times magazine. Jana shares her curriculum, engages in online art forums, and presents at conferences. She serves as Vice President of the Watertown Arts Council and Editor of the Wisconsin Art Education Association. Jana also co-chairs the State Visual Arts Classic team competition. Her dedication to students is unparalleled. She created websites and event calendars for local K-12 art staff and coordinates art-related activities. Jana co-founded the Gosling Nest to support impoverished families, investing countless volunteer hours. Her graphic design skills are widely sought after, and she donates her expertise to colleagues and local organizations. Jana has been instrumental in establishing opportunities for students, partnering with local businesses for real-world experiences in photography and design. She coordinates field trips, collaborates with the City and Chamber of Commerce, and runs events like the Main Street Art Walk. Jana's influence reaches beyond teaching—she coaches dance, judges 4-H shows, and facilitates community events. Her efforts have earned her numerous awards, including the AAUW Woman of Merit Award and Elks Citizen of the Year. Jana's passion and dedication make her an inspiration to all. |
April 2026
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Teacher: Tenaya Mars Fritz
School/District/ City: Bartels Middle School, Portage Community Schools In her seventh year as an art educator, Tenaya brings creativity, compassion, and connection to every classroom she teaches. With experience from 4K to 8th grade, she intentionally builds artistic confidence over time, pairing strong skill development with student voice and meaningful reflection. Her lessons connect art to other subjects and careers, and she secures grants and integrates technology so students access real-world tools and experiences. A passionate advocate for art education, Tenaya turned storefronts into a Community Art Walk with over fifteen local businesses and led 4K–2 students in a hallway-sized mural celebrating growth mindset and inclusivity—daily reminders that every learner belongs. Her Art Club unites students across grades for service and leadership: creating art with nursing home residents, sewing fleece hats for a homeless shelter, and volunteering at community events. She also helps organize the annual Souper Show, a fine-arts fundraiser that draws the community together. At Bartels Middle School, where she’s taught for two years, Tenaya creates a classroom where students feel welcomed, inspired, and confident to take risks. She holds high expectations while offering structure and encouragement, resulting in thoughtful work and pride. Beyond instruction, she collaborates with colleagues, serves on the Staff Engagement Committee, and fosters a school culture of creativity and care. Tenaya’s unwavering standards, intentional teaching, and community-focused projects make art accessible, meaningful, and impactful—exactly the kind of educator an award should honor. |
Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
May 2026
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Teacher: John-Paul Butcher
School/District/ City: Platteville High School, Platteville, Wisconsin John-Paul Butcher is the kind of art teacher students remember long after they leave his classroom. He has a natural way of connecting with kids—he’s open-minded, easy to talk to, and genuinely cares about who they are as people. His classes are thoughtfully put together, balancing creativity with purpose so students feel both challenged and supported. Beyond his own classroom, John-Paul is a big believer in community. He started the Southwestern Wisconsin Art Teachers group to bring educators together, giving them a space to share ideas, resources, and encouragement. He’s always willing to lend a hand or offer advice, making him a valued colleague as well as a teacher. At Platteville High School, where he’s been teaching since 2016, John-Paul also runs the Platteville VAC. One of the most impressive things about him is the trust he places in his students. He gives them real responsibilities, and they step up—something that speaks volumes about the respect they have for each other. With 25 years in education, John-Paul continues to make a difference every day. Outside of school, he enjoys time with his wife, four kids, and two grandkids. |
June 2026
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Teacher: Madeline Rozeske School/District/ City: Chippewa Falls High School, Chippewa Falls Creativity, innovation, and student-centered leadership define Madeline’s impact as an educator. Throughout her career, she has gone beyond teaching art by creating experiences that inspire students, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging. Madeline believes that every student deserves the opportunity to be seen, celebrated, and challenged. This belief is reflected in the programs and opportunities she has developed, including the Glow Show, an Adaptive Art Show that highlights inclusion and showcases the talents of diverse learners. Through her vision and leadership, students have also had the opportunity to exhibit their work in public venues such as the Pablo Center, the Heyde Center for the Arts, and Youth Art Month exhibitions, giving young artists a chance to share their creativity with the wider community. Inside the classroom, Madeline creates an environment where students feel supported while being encouraged to take risks, think critically, and grow as artists and individuals. Her ability to adapt, solve problems, and lead through challenges earned her recognition as a “Resilient Thinker” at Chippewa Falls High School in 2026. Never content to stand still, Madeline continually seeks new ways to expand opportunities for students. She recently introduced AP Art History and has strengthened the art program through new courses, community partnerships, and innovative learning experiences. Her dedication extends beyond the school day through her involvement with the Visual Arts Classic, Visioneer Design Challenge, Fashion Club, Photography Club, and Freshmen Class Officer advising. Whether organizing exhibitions, mentoring student leaders, or championing inclusive programming, Madeline leaves a lasting impression. Her passion, vision, and commitment make her not only an outstanding educator, but also a transformative force in the lives of her students. Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
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July 2026
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Teacher: Mina Satari
School/District/ City: E-Achieve Waukesha Mina Satari continually goes above and beyond to expand opportunities for students while helping shape the future of digital art education. As the K-12 art teacher at eAchieve Academy and eAchieve Elementary, she recently took on the additional responsibility of launching elementary eAchieve art while continuing to lead the secondary art program. She also serves as a study skills teacher, working one-on-one with students to provide academic support, encouragement, and individualized guidance. Mina has become a leader in both the Waukesha School District and the broader art education community. She regularly leads professional development for colleagues and has presented at the Wisconsin Art Education Association (WAEA), the National Art Education Association (NAEA), and district conferences. As she continues to expand her expertise in digital art education, she is also working toward becoming an Adobe Certified Educator, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and innovation. Her influence extends beyond the classroom through her involvement on the school marketing team and as the advisor for Publication Club and the Virtual Art Lounge. In March 2026, Mina organized a Youth Art Month exhibition that showcased student digital artwork, giving students the opportunity to share their personal stories through creative expression. She is also collaborating with English teacher Nancy Roncke to develop a mini art, film, and literature festival that will celebrate creativity across multiple disciplines. Whether she is supporting students individually, mentoring colleagues, or creating new opportunities for artistic expression, Mina's work reflects a deep commitment to ensuring every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to share their voice through art. Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
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August 2026
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Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
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September 2026
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Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
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October 2026
Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
November 2026
Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.
December 2026
Nominate a Wisconsin Art Teacher today within the Nomination Link.