Perspectives from the Classroom
This school year mark’s my 14th year teaching at St. Paul Catholic. As I reflected on my journey here at St. Paul, I realized what I enjoyed most about teaching is sharing the love and passion I have for the arts. So, as I thought about this year’s theme “be the light” I began to wonder what does “be the light” mean to me and for all the students I am teaching.
As a true advocator of arts, I can clearly see the joy and passion I bring to these young aspiring artists
is my light. Hopefully it will illuminate their passions and dreams for their future. Through my classes, projects and productions, our creative students have a unique opportunity to “be the light” and share their light with others in their community, whether on stage, through a film project or through the work of their own artistic hands.
Letting our own light shine through our works of art helps others shine too— our goal should never be to bring recognition to ourselves, but to bring glory to God.
I really admire our students who can get up on stage and share their music and talent to tell stories that entertain, inspire and enlighten. I admire the courage and vulnerability they're showing by putting themselves out there in that way. In a sense, they are emitting their own light to shine.
In the same way, our students who create works of art with pencil or paint, or the skills to craft a film have the desire to express themselves in a way that makes them feel like they are being truthful and authentic. I think their expression of that light touches everyone who sees their creation.
I find it an honor and a blessing to be able to share my creative knowledge and experience with each student. Over time I get to know each and every one of them, for who they are, their dreams, their hopes and fears. And it’s in the “knowing” that and I am able to empower them to skillfully participate in their craft and use it as a vehicle to explore their creativity, engage in their work and to get them to share their light.
Many parents and faculty are often touched by the work of our performing and fine arts students and at times have said that I am able to work miracles with them. The fact is the students “are” the miracles and we are blessed to witness it.
