Deni Drinkwater
Summary
I am a dynamic Fine Arts Teacher with a proven track record at Chicago Public Schools, fostering student engagement through innovative curriculum development and collaborative teaching. Skilled in project-based learning and visual literacy, I inspire artistic self-discovery while maintaining a well-organized classroom environment. I am committed to cultural awareness and mentoring students in their creative journeys.
As a fine arts professional, I exhibit a deep commitment to nurturing artistic talent and encouraging creative expression. I have proven track record of developing comprehensive art programs that inspire students and meet educational standards.
I am a Fine Arts Educator with strong foundation in visual and performing arts, skilled in curriculum development, classroom management, and student engagement. Known for fostering creativity and critical thinking, while ensuring collaborative and adaptive learning environment. Adept at integrating modern techniques and traditional methods to inspire students and achieve measurable results. Reliable and flexible, consistently meeting evolving educational needs.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
Fine Arts Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Edison Regional Gifted Center
09.2004 - Current
- Developed curriculum for grades Kindergarten-8th Grade
- Promoted cultural awareness through the integration of diverse artistic styles and techniques in lesson plans.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary art units, fostering a cohesive learning environment for students.
- Continuously refined teaching strategies through ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on trends within the field of fine arts education.
- Developed strong relationships with students and parents, leading to increased student engagement and improved behavior in class.
- Identified students' creative needs and collaborated with other staff for fine arts development.
- Managed art room supplies, equipment and resources to maintain consistent supply for projects.
- Developed and implemented engaging art lessons for students in grades kindergarten through 8th.
- Assessed student work and provided constructive feedback.
- Fostered love for art and learning to inspire students to pursue passions and interests.
- Incorporated student interests and experiences to make learning relevant and meaningful.
- Used technology in classrooms to integrate technology and multimedia tools into art lessons and enhance student learning.
- Attended concerts and performances to support students and arts community.
- Attended department meetings and collaborated with other fine arts teachers.
- Created learning environment that encouraged fine arts appreciation.
- Assisted in organizing school-wide talent shows and performances, celebrating student achievements and showcasing their talents to the community.
Art Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Brentano Math and Science Academy
09.2001 - 06.2004
- Managed classroom resources effectively, ensuring all necessary materials were available for successful lesson implementation.
- Facilitated peer critiques among students, enabling them to grow through constructive feedback from classmates.
- Guided students through process of artistic self-discovery, helping each evaluate and develop personal talents.
- Created engaging lesson plans, fostered culture of discovery and provided well-organized classroom structure to help students succeed in program.
- Instructed students on visual arts techniques and assigned related art projects for students in different grade levels.
- Mentored students on developing their personal artistic styles while building a strong foundation in technical skills.
Owner
Wave Mechanics Neon
08.1986 - 08.2001
- Managed day-to-day business operations of a custom neon fabrication/installation business
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Art
Sonoma State University
Rohnert Park, CAAssociate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Santa Rosa Junior College
Santa Rosa, CAMaster of Arts - Interdisciplinary Arts Education
Columbia College, Chicago
Chicago, IL05-2004
Skills
- Artistic techniques
- Acrylic painting
- Studio maintenance
- Collaborative teaching
- Project-based learning
- Cross-cultural awareness
- Visual literacy
- Art history
- Art criticism
- Multimedia instruction
- Classroom management
- Lesson planning
- Curriculum implementation
- Student mentoring
Timeline
Fine Arts Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Edison Regional Gifted Center
09.2004 - Current
Art Teacher
Chicago Public Schools, Brentano Math and Science Academy
09.2001 - 06.2004
Owner
Wave Mechanics Neon
08.1986 - 08.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Art
Sonoma State University
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Santa Rosa Junior College
Master of Arts - Interdisciplinary Arts Education
Columbia College, Chicago
Similar Profiles
Nadine RodriguezNadine Rodriguez
School Social Work Intern at Chicago Public Schools, Edison Regional GiftedSchool Social Work Intern at Chicago Public Schools, Edison Regional Gifted
Frederick MooreFrederick Moore
Adapted Physical Education Specialist at Gifted Healthcare/IDEA Public Charter SchoolsAdapted Physical Education Specialist at Gifted Healthcare/IDEA Public Charter Schools
Xavier RiosXavier Rios
Special Education Paraprofessional at Chicago Public Schools, Northside Learning CenterSpecial Education Paraprofessional at Chicago Public Schools, Northside Learning Center
Terri SchryversTerri Schryvers
Fine Arts Teacher at Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISDFine Arts Teacher at Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD
Michael GomezMichael Gomez
Fine Arts Teacher at Mountain View School DistrictFine Arts Teacher at Mountain View School District