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Teacher of the Week: Terri Sanders, Hauke Academic Alternative High School

By: WOL Staff
| Published 10/04/2013

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As a society, we may forget that teachers are public employees in the vein of firefighters, policemen and politicians. Teachers perform a public service. To become a teacher is a choice to forsake the almighty dollar and instead serve the interests of the general public (that’s you and me). So it’s worthwhile to recognize this sacrifice and acknowledge teachers for the heroes they are--heroes in the everyday war of attrition we wage against ignorance and apathy. In this weekly series, Woodlands Online features one Woodlands area educator for his or her outstanding contributions to our children’s development.

Terri Sanders teaches Art Levels I-IV, Painting, Sculpture, Ceramics, AP Art History, AP 2D Portfolio, and sponsors National Art Honor Society at Hauke Academic Alternative High School in Conroe ISD. A Sam Houston State University graduate, Sanders is certified to teach Art from Pre-K through 12th grade.

After teaching at Oak Ridge High School, Sanders was offered a position at Hauke; a school that offers a small, individualized experience for students who struggle in the larger CISD schools.

"Because I teach at an at-risk school, everyday new challenges arise. Art becomes a positive experience for many students. They can relay their emotions through their art," Sanders said.

Every year, at the beginning of each year, Sanders sets goals for her students. Among other goals students may set themselves, she requires goals encompassing knowledge and skills in art that are achieved throughout the school year. "Dr. Don Stockton purchased iPads for our campus last year. We are now able to use the iPads for another method in research," Sanders said.

However, the joy in teaching does not come from technology and tools, but good old fashioned passion for a subject. In 2009, Sanders traveled to Mali, West Africa to gather research for her masters degree by teaching art to underprivileged children. On the day she left to return to the U.S., her students gave her all their artwork.

"It was a moving experience to accept their gifts. Though we did not speak the same language, 'Art' was our language," she said.

Sanders said all types of learners benefit from art classes in every subject they learn. She teaches cross-curriculum classes that infuse art into electives as well as academics. "I feel it is important for my art students to see me as a working artist," said Sanders. Her students can keep up with her artwork by visiting her website.

Sanders received the "Teacher of the Year" award for the 2012-13 school year and is honored to represent Hauke. She wants her students to always remember that "Everyone is an Artist and Art is Life."

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