Sonja Avena
Raleigh,NC
Summary
Proven Visual Arts Teacher from Casa Esperanza Montessori Charter School, adept in fostering artistic and creative growth and emotional well-being in students from Pre-K through 8th grade. Excelled in teamwork, collaboration, and problem-solving, significantly enriching educational experiences. Known for a friendly attitude and exceptional communication skills, ensuring effective mentorship and parent engagement. Continuously seeks improvement, demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to excellence.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Visual Arts Teacher
Casa Esperanza Montessori Charter School
09.2019 - Current
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Developed and implemented engaging art lessons for students in grades kindergarten through 8th.
- Taught classes on painting, collage, color theory, sewing, printmaking, clay, and drawing.
- Implemented effective classroom management strategies, maintaining discipline while fostering creativity and individuality in student work.
Visual Arts Electives Teacher
Expedition School
09.2018 - 06.2019
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in art education.
- Supported students in developing social skills through structured activities and positive reinforcement techniques.
Visual Arts Teacher
Wake County Schools
12.2017 - 06.2018
- Incorporated multiple types of teaching strategies into classroom.
- Inspired students and assisted in developing creativity and self-expression through various art forms and media.
- Managed a diverse range of learners, adapting lesson plans to accommodate different abilities and interests.
Visual Arts Teacher
Franklin County Schools
08.2013 - 12.2017
- Developed students'' artistic skills by providing personalized feedback and guidance on their artwork.
- Organized school-wide art exhibits showcasing student talent and promoting the importance of visual arts in education.
- Assessed student work and provided constructive feedback.
- Mentored new art teachers entering the profession by sharing resources, insights, and expertise gained throughout years of experience.
Visual Arts Teacher
Davie County Schools
08.2012 - 06.2013
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Managed art room supplies, equipment and resources to maintain consistent supply for projects.
- Managed a diverse range of learners, adapting lesson plans to accommodate different abilities and interests.
Education
Master of Arts - Art Education
The Art of Education University
Osage, IA06.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Studio Art
Meredith College
Raleigh, NC12.2010
Skills
- Friendly, Positive Attitude
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Attention to Detail
- Flexible and Adaptable
- Dependable and Responsible
- Active Listening
- Excellent Communication
- Problem-Solving
botanical illustration, gardening, learning Spanish
I am in the process of earning a certificate in botanical illustration through the North Carolina Botanical Garden. I am specializing in watercolor and colored pencil. I also love spending time in my garden, growing native plants for their beauty and medicinal purposes. I also am enjoying learning Spanish so I can communicate with people when I walk the Camino de Santiago in the summer of 2025!
Timeline
Visual Arts Teacher
Casa Esperanza Montessori Charter School
09.2019 - Current
Visual Arts Electives Teacher
Expedition School
09.2018 - 06.2019
Visual Arts Teacher
Wake County Schools
12.2017 - 06.2018
Visual Arts Teacher
Franklin County Schools
08.2013 - 12.2017
Visual Arts Teacher
Davie County Schools
08.2012 - 06.2013
Master of Arts - Art Education
The Art of Education University
Bachelor of Arts - Studio Art
Meredith College
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