Which is better in a teacher? Ability or Passion?

Posted by Kira on March 17, 2010

Last week at my personal blog, I related some frustration about what it means to be an art teacher in my county right now. I also talked about what it really MEANS to be an art teacher. I am certified to teach all ages, K-12, and all art subjects- from drawing and painting, to AP Art History, to photography…are you getting my drift here? That means I have to be prepared to teach any and all art media to children aged 5-18. And I’m expected to be “good” at all of it. Let’s test that theory with what happened to me this year.

When I was “placed,” which means the district moved me from one job to another, all the administration knew was that I have Graphic Design skills. Therefore, they placed me in the Fine Arts Department, teaching Graphics, and also teaching overflow photography (2 sections) and Advanced Drawing & Painting- because after all, I am certified to teach anything. This is after I had a conversation with the Principal and expressed my enthusiasm for possibly teaching the AP Art History classes due to my interest in the subject.

So what happened to me? Well, I discovered a couple of things about myself.

1. I am a great Graphic Designer & Teacher, although I have never had formal training myself. BECAUSE I LOVE IT.
2. I really dislike teaching Drawing & Painting. I am capable, but not doing a great job at it. I have high standards, and I am failing- in my opinion.
3. I would have taught a great Art History class- I am an intellectual as well as an artist, and my students comment that I know a lot about “this stuff.”

Who is teaching Art History? Another “placed” teacher who struggles with it. She doesn’t love it, and the kids know it. I suspect they did not allow me to teach it because I lacked experience- but experience does NOT equate to passion, and passion is what makes a great teacher. I know- I am not passionate about Drawing & Painting, and I’m sure my students feel it as much as I do when I open the door and put on my happy face.

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