Artist Teacher Philosophy
In Paul Coelho’s book, The Fifth Mountain, there is an excerpt that explains a child can always teach an adult three things: to be happy for no reason, always be busy with something, and to insist upon that which he or she desires. I believe I can learn from all children in this manner because as a teacher, I am always a student. As an artist, travel and community have become intrinsic to my artwork. My art comes from the use of an amalgamation of materials as I shuffle through a range of comforting, quirky, and colorful supplies. I facilitate and make available these supplies for others to join me in the journey of making. My work isn’t functioning properly if the audience does not feel invited to engage themselves. I enjoy exploring new communities, reaching out to others, and experiencing their worlds. I try to involve myself in as many different experiences as I can and wish the same for my students.
It is important to assist children in their motivation to stay active in school. My mother, born and raised in Puerto Rico, was among the first in her family to go on to pursue higher education. My dad’s mother, my grandmother was one of eleven children to all go to college. My grandmother’s father slowly sold all of the land to his very successful coconut farm in order to pay for all his children’s higher education, because he knew one day the farms would not be enough to sustain progress and security for his family. Progress is why I choose to work in Education. I believe it is important to help establish the relevance of education and its impact on students’ future careers. Because of my background, I am especially interested in securing education among minorities and underprivileged youth. Education in Art is uniquely useful in that it has the capability to function as a visual language, one that could empower students and help make them feel comfortable and capable in school.
It is important to teach through a process of inquiry, promoting personal growth and furthering the character development of learners. Teachers become facilitators of inquiry-based learning by setting project goals, providing resources, guidelines, and suggestions. I find it useful to teach themes that are culturally relevant. ‘It is my personal approach that creates the climate of the classroom. As a teacher I posses a tremendous power to make a child’s life miserable or joyous.’ Identifying and attending to the needs of all types of students is important because if not, children will either stay silent, will be forced to develop their literacy on their own, or not at all. When children learn from individual meaningful experiences they remember information better. The role of teachers extend beyond the classroom, as we model appropriate behavior and teach valuable life skills, manners, time management, and ways to advocate for oneself.
It is my honored work to inspire success, encourage values, life skills, and positivity in my students. I consider that education develops a better society, one where people respect each other and intend to better their lives and community.
Alexandra Arocho
May 2011
