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Alicia Essen
Art Teacher
Victoria,MN
Summary
Dedicated Art Educator with over 10 years of experience teaching middle school students and creating district-wide art curriculum. Proven ability to boost student engagement, improve creative output, lead art centered clubs, and grow community events. Passionate about creating inclusive, dynamic learning environments that help every student succeed.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher
Minnetonka Public Schools
09.2025 - Current
Art Teacher
Jackson Middle School
01.2005 - 06.2017
- Delivered engaging art curriculum that consistently met or exceeded department SMART goals and produced high student test scores across diverse learners
- Built strong classroom culture through clear expectations, differentiated instruction, and creative teaching strategies
- Collaborated with colleagues on cross-departmental projects to integrate art with academic subjects
Art Curriculum and Rubric/Test Developer
Anoka-Hennepin ISD #11
01.2010 - 06.2014
- Wrote and designed diverse and engaging lesson plans for multiple art classes that aligned with state and district standards
- Led development of data-driven art assessments aligned with district and state standards
- Worked directly with district leaders to create research-based curriculum and meet tight deadlines
Arts & Academic Expo Director
Jackson Middle School
09.2010 - 03.2014
- Transformed school-wide event, increasing attendance from under 400 to over 1,000 participants — more than quadrupling turnout
- Secured community support and helped maintain student enrollment through successful annual events
- Managed budget, coordinated multiple departments, and executed large-scale logistics
Education
M.Ed. - Teaching & Learning
St. Mary’s University
Winona, MN05.2008
B.S. - Art Education
St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud, MN12.2005
Skills
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
- Student engagement
- Classroom organization
- Time Management
- Supply management
- Art technique
- Attention to detail
- Creativity and artistic expression
- Multitasking Abilities
Timeline
Substitute Teacher
Minnetonka Public Schools
09.2025 - Current
Arts & Academic Expo Director
Jackson Middle School
09.2010 - 03.2014
Art Curriculum and Rubric/Test Developer
Anoka-Hennepin ISD #11
01.2010 - 06.2014
Art Teacher
Jackson Middle School
01.2005 - 06.2017
B.S. - Art Education
St. Cloud State University
M.Ed. - Teaching & Learning
St. Mary’s University
Honors & Awards
- Runner-up, National Girl Scouts Patch Design Contest
- First Place, Contemporary Sculpture Competition at Art Institute of Chicago
- Formal recognition for leadership of the Arts & Academic Expo