My deeply held values in arts education leadership include:

Creativity- Not being afraid to try new ideas/tactics and taking risks for the sake of success.

Inclusivity- Creating a safe space where everyone belongs.

Collaboration- Working as a team both inside and outside of the classroom.

Passion- Having a deep commitment to whatever art form is being pursued by both the teacher and students.

This, along with my vision to create a safe space for educators and students to be creative and innovative in their specific area of fine arts, creates my mission. My mission as a future Fine Arts Director for a school district is I, as an arts leader, will support both educators and students in their pursuit of the fine arts. I will be a leader who provides a space and a working community that provides a sense of belonging and allows everyone to think outside the box. The arts allow for so many values to be met, arts education is the space to explore those values both as an educator and as a student.

When I consider other values I have in my role as a teacher and in my personal life, I see how they tie into the values I have listed above. One of the main values in my life is to be able to build connections with others. I think it’s the theatre artist in me, but I cherish being able to openly communicate and feel like a safe space for others. It’s almost like being a scene partner for someone; I think having a connection with others allows you to support them in their exploration of life (either on or off the stage).