My overall teaching philosophy is that all students can achieve the goal of a successful image through hard work, dedication and the willingness to try new things. I start my class with a lecture or power-point presentation and then move into individual work time. I connect with my students by guiding their projects, but I allow them the opportunity for self-discovery through materials and new content. I assess a student’s progress and process through interactive class discussion and class critiques. I believe that school gives students a safe place to explore their own interests and the emotional framework to take risks. To me, art education involves the exploration of different materials, learning new movements in art, and gaining knowledge about new artists and techniques.