My teaching is grounded in the Circle of Courage, a philosophy rooted in Native American traditions that centers on four principles: Belonging, Mastery, Independence, and Generosity. I first encountered this framework in 2003 as a student teacher at the Alternative High School with the Calgary Board of Education in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, where I had the privilege of learning directly from respected elders of the Siksika and Blackfoot nations. Their wisdom about nurturing youth has shaped how I've approached teaching ever since — through my full-time career beginning in 2006 and in every art and design classroom I've led.

Spirit of Belonging — Every student is known by name and valued for their individual strengths. We build community through group activities, peer support, and by celebrating the full range of backgrounds and artistic perspectives in the room.

Spirit of Mastery — Students set and work toward real artistic goals, supported by constructive feedback and personalized guidance. My goal is for every student to see clear growth in their skill and confidence as an artist over the course of the year.

Spirit of Independence — Students find and lead their own artistic voice. I provide the materials, references, and structure — but the creative direction is theirs, within a classroom that still feels supportive.

Spirit of Generosity — Students learn to give back: helping classmates through new techniques, contributing to community-oriented projects, and even helping shape how I teach. It's a cycle of mutual growth, not a one-way exchange.

Together, these four principles create a classroom where students feel they belong, are motivated to improve, have room to express themselves independently, and understand that their art can serve something beyond themselves. This is the environment I work to build every day — one where students grow not just as artists, but as confident, generous, and capable young people.

Read more about our classroom practices here: My Teaching Philosophy