Arts Ed Students Share their Passion for Teaching During Arts in Education Week
National Arts in Education Week is an initiative from Americans For The Arts that brings attention to the amazing work of arts educators (and those studying to become one!) in our communities! To celebrate the week, September 9-15, 2024, we talked to 5 arts ed students who are currently student teaching this semester about why arts education is so important to them.
Adam Kallestad (Music Ed), Mooresville High School
“I want to teach because I see the difference a teacher can make in the world, and in the life of a student. When I think of my biggest influences and role models, most of them have been teachers. Music is my lifelong passion, and I feel it’s the medium through which I can offer the most good to the world.”
“Music education has a profound effect on not only the student, but on their community as well, “Adam shares. “When we teach music, we are teaching much more than how to sing or play an instrument; we are teaching someone to express themselves artistically in such a way that they move others emotionally. This is a very powerful thing, to connect with one another through collaborative, creative output…to share one’s feelings and tell stories through beautiful sounds…to learn about and embrace art, culture, and humanity…the list goes on. When we teach music, we inspire love for life itself. If there is anything that can bring us together, I believe it is this.”
Mallory Morton who (Theatre Ed), Mint Hill Middle School
“I wanted to go into the field of theatre education because I love theatre AND education, so it seemed like the perfect gig to be able to do both! Once I started pursuing this field, I knew that it was perfect for me. My passion continues to grow for theatre education while here at Charlotte!”
“When I was in middle school, Theatre was the only place where I felt I could truly be myself without fear of judgment,” she shares. “It was always a safe space, which made me want to provide that inclusive environment to other students. When students can feel safe to fully be themselves, the best learning happens, and I love to see students grow in and embrace their theatrical sides!”
Rachel Barger (Art Ed), Northwest Cabarrus High School
“There are so many benefits of art in a classroom and giving students the ability to express themselves is so important to me. Art can be so accessible and encouraging for any student and I want to make sure they have that opportunity, no matter their circumstances.”
“Going into art education combines two of my passions, art and teaching,” Rachel shares. “I think being in a classroom with students has helped me to be better – both artistically and academically.”
Jimie Maley (Music Ed) Hickory Ridge High School
“Education was not always my passion. Coming into college, I wanted to use the degree as a stepping stone for a graduate program. I soon realized teaching was what I was meant to do. Working with students, building the next generation of musicians and music lovers, and seeing the spark in a student’s eye when they finally understand the topic is an experience that is truly magical.”
“I couldn’t see myself doing anything else with my life,” he continues. “Plus, it’s a fun challenge for me to figure out how to get a student to fully understand something as fast, and with as few words, as possible! Music Education is vital not only for students and myself but for society,” Jimie shares. “The life skills learned by being in the arts and the standards held in this field cannot be found anywhere else. What other subject in school demands absolute 100% accuracy out of their students? What other subject in school forces the students to rely on each other and be responsible for the success of the group? These skills taught by the normal procedures in the music classroom are imperative for a society to function, and teach them in a way that is aesthetically pleasing and fun to accomplish!”
Chase McLean (Dance Ed)
“I have found a love for teaching dance and sharing my passion with dancers and nondancers alike. I also really enjoy speaking about the different parts of dance (movement, how to choreography, etc). I’ve also thought about teaching English as a second language and to help students learn how to read. My career path seems to revolve around teaching, so I’ll probably stay around this career!”
Julia Charette (Music Ed), North West School of the Arts
“Music education is an outlet for young musicians to feel free to express themselves and connect with others through song! The choir room was always my safe space and I hope my room will be the same for others.”
“I have been very involved in chorus since the fourth grade, and music was always something I knew I wanted to pursue as a career path,” Julia shares. “When I transferred to UNC Charlotte, my advisor talked to me about our music education route and it was the perfect fit! I am extremely passionate about what I do and so grateful for the people who got me here!”