ABOUT
“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.”
— Rumi
"I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life—and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do."
— Georgia O’Keeffe
“The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.”
— Aristotle
WELCOME! I'M KRISTEN,
an enthusiastic and dedicated elementary art teacher with over 15 years of experience inspiring young artists. I currently teach K–5 art to over 700 incredible students each week, and I feel incredibly lucky to call this my life’s work.
My journey in art education began with a deep love for creativity, self-expression, and the joy that comes from helping children discover their unique artistic voices. Over the years, I’ve developed a teaching style that blends foundational skills with exploration, play, and a strong emphasis on student choice. I believe that every child is an artist—and my classroom is a space where mistakes are celebrated, ideas are nurtured, and creativity blooms.
In addition to holding K–12 teaching certification, I’m proud to be working toward National Board Certification in early childhood art education, a journey that’s helping me grow even deeper in my reflective practice. I’m also a certified yoga instructor (200-hour), and I love weaving mindfulness, movement, and emotional awareness into the art room to support the whole child.
MY STORY
Like many specialists, I’ve spent much of my career as the only art teacher in my building. While I’ve always loved what I do, there was a period when I felt overwhelmed, burnt out, and deeply isolated. That chapter of my life pushed me to invest in my own growth and healing.
During that time, I became a certified SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) facilitator—a powerful turning point that helped me reconnect with myself and my purpose. That experience not only reshaped my own life, but it also transformed the way I teach.
Today, my mission goes beyond art; I help my students process big emotions, build resilience, and express themselves through creative outlets that feel safe, empowering, and real.
My students absolutely love our STEAM-inspired early finisher stations, which I’ve designed to encourage innovation and curiosity beyond the page. Whether we’re experimenting with sculpture, building structures, or exploring nature-based materials, I aim to foster creative confidence in every student.
THE INSPIRATION
Feeling isolated as a teacher also inspired me to start sharing my journey online. I wanted to connect with other art educators, share resources, and build a creative community where no one feels alone. What started as a small outlet has grown into a space full of inspiration, support, and authentic connection—and I’m so grateful you’re here.
When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me caring for animals (I’m a devoted pet sitter!), exploring new mediums in my own art practice, or dreaming up ideas for my next social media reel. I’m passionate about connecting with fellow educators and artists, and I love sharing creative inspiration online to support other teachers on their journey.
Thank you for being here and for supporting the arts—it means the world to me!
Let’s stay connected
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