Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Theresa Stephens

Laguna Niguel,CA

Summary

Dynamic and passionate art educator with experience teaching elementary and middle school students, introducing a wide range of art mediums and art history concepts through engaging, age-appropriate, and student-centered lessons. Skilled in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression while maintaining an inclusive, supportive classroom environment that encourages participation and confidence.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Visual Arts Teacher

Mission Basilica School
08.2015 - Current
  • Established and managed the school’s first art program for grades TK–8.
  • Proficiency in multiple mediums including painting (watercolor, acrylic paint), drawing (chalk and oil pastels), printmaking and sculpture (clay).
  • Created art projects while inspiring, teaching and assisting students in developing creativity and self-expression through a variety of art forms and media.
  • Provided extra help and support to offer additional support to struggling students and encourage success in art subjects.
  • Adapted instruction to meet individual student needs to differentiate instruction to meet students' diverse learning needs and abilities.
  • Managed art room supplies, equipment and resources to maintain consistent supply for projects.
  • Developed and implemented engaging art lessons for students in grades TK - 8.
  • Assessed student work and provided constructive feedback.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to create stimulating art curriculums.
  • Evaluated and graded students' class work.
  • Planned and delivered PowerPoint lessons on master artists, followed by hands-on art projects reflecting each artist's style.
  • Traveled locally and internationally to museums to enhance teaching skills and expand art knowledge.
  • Collaborated with community arts organizations to organize art contests, providing students with opportunities for learning and growth.
  • Managed classroom behavior to establish and maintain clear classroom behavior and discipline expectations.
  • Incorporated student interests and experiences to make learning relevant and meaningful.
  • Fostered love for art and learning to inspire students to pursue passions and interests.
  • Initiated and led after-school art classes and summer art camps, providing students with structured opportunities to continue developing artistic skills beyond the classroom.
  • Worked with classroom parents to coordinate fundraising events featuring student art projects.
  • Organized art shows for school open houses to showcase student work.

Art Instructor

Art Masters, Incorporated
01.2004 - 2015
  • Conducted art lessons for several schools in the Capistrano and Saddleback Unified School Districts, delivering engaging and educational content to students.
  • Implemented age-appropriate art projects for students ranging from grades TK - 8.
  • Mentored in over 36 art lesson plans surrounding various types of art, history and culture.
  • Provided training to parent volunteers and substitute teachers, ensuring smooth classroom operations and support.
  • Established positive relationships with teachers, parents, and volunteers, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations, Communications

California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA

Skills

  • Art History & Theory
  • Multimedia instruction
  • Curriculum Development
  • Classroom Management
  • Assessment & Critique
  • Empathy & Patience
  • Collaboration
  • Progress reporting
  • Supply management

Certification


Instagram.Com/HereYouGoghArt

Timeline

Visual Arts Teacher

Mission Basilica School
08.2015 - Current

Art Instructor

Art Masters, Incorporated
01.2004 - 2015

Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations, Communications

California State University, Fullerton
Theresa Stephens