What years did you attend WAA?
I attended WAA from around the ages of 5-11 (K-5).
What program(s) did you participate in at WAA?
Theatre, sewing, book club (spy club), baking, piano and writing.
How did WAA make a lasting impression and impact on you?
WAA impacted me through the realization that a well-centered education relies on the arts. More specifically, that art-related skills apply to all subjects. WAA encouraged me to always be pursuing some sort of artistic venture because that was instilled in me while growing up at WAA. While I may be a substitute teacher right now, I am actively making personal art, selling personal art, and preparing lessons for next year as an art educator!
What areas of study did you pursue after your time at WAA?
After Woodlawn, I continued my studies, making it a priority to focus on art. In high school, I attended WACC and took digital media classes with Mr. Mennie. After graduating, I went on to pursue my Associate’s in Fine Arts at SVCC with Glenn Bodish. And finally, I attended UIC to achieve my Bachelor’s degree in Art Education and I graduated this spring.
What are your current arts related job/career?
I am currently the full-time substitute at Polo School District, subbing for all classes and ages, but specifically being able to put my knowledge to use in classes like art, music and English. Additionally, I will now be working at Woodlawn to continue my focus on art education! I am so excited to teach art at the place that allowed me to fall in love with the power of creativity.
Do you feel that your time at WAA is a direct reflection on your current position/career path?
100%! Seeing Woodlawn’s educators proved to me that you CAN center a career around the arts, despite the overwhelming notion that art is not as important as other ventures. I think that Woodlawn is an incredible resource for the surrounding communities. It is important now more than ever to provide kids with a space where they can come to express their creativity and critical thinking within a community that actively fosters it.
