Platte Valley

During my initial student teaching placement at Platte Valley Middle and Elementary School, I had the invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in the world of education for a fulfilling sixteen-week period. Under the guidance and mentorship of Wendi Oster and Jess Baker, both experienced and dedicated Art educators, I embarked on a journey to teach art using the Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB) method. This method employed during my student teaching placement is characterized by a student-centered and choice-based learning approach. In this method, students have the freedom to choose their art projects based on personal interests, fostering a sense of ownership and autonomy. The classroom is equipped with various art studios or centers, allowing individuals to explore diverse mediums. As a facilitator, the teacher guides and supports students in their artistic endeavors, promoting self-reflection and peer critique. The TAB method encourages continuous skill development while emphasizing the joy of creative expression, providing a dynamic and inclusive art education experience.

Working alongside Wendi Oster and Jess Baker provided me with a wealth of insights and practical knowledge, as she shared her expertise in the field of education. The TAB method, allowed me to foster a creative and dynamic environment within the art classroom. Throughout the placement, I engaged with students of Platte Valley, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere that encouraged artistic expression. The experience not only deepened my understanding of effective teaching methodologies but also reinforced the significance of cultivating a positive and inclusive classroom culture.

Platte Valley, with its vibrant community and commitment to education, served as an ideal setting for my introduction to student teaching. Their school is in a rural location that reflects a close-knit community. I felt welcomed by each and every one of the staff there. The nine weeks spent there were not only formative for the students but also instrumental in shaping my identity as an aspiring educator. I am grateful for the mentorship provided by Wendi and Jess and the enriching experience at Platte Valley School District, which laid a strong foundation for my future endeavors in the field of education.

Student Examples

Cardboard Truck

Crocheted Heart

Wheel Thrown Pots

Needle Felted Animals

Spin Art

Sewed Sloth Stuffy

About the school

The communities surrounding Kersey, Colorado, blend urban amenities with a strong connection to the region's agricultural heritage. Situated in Northern Colorado, Kersey is part of Weld County, characterized by expansive plains, scenic mountain views, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Historically rooted in agriculture, local farmers and ranchers continue to play a significant role in the community's economy and culture. With a population of 1453, the community is ethnically diverse, with the two largest groups being White (66.2%) and Hispanic (25.6%). The local economy is diverse, contributing to the overall well-being of the community. Residents are known for their strong sense of community and civic engagement, collaborating with various organizations to enhance the quality of life. The Platte Valley School District, serving Kersey, is a rural, dynamic educational community with a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Comprising three schools, the district empowers students with knowledge and values. It offers a comprehensive range of educational programs, emphasizing arts, athletics, and inclusivity. Platte Valley Middle School, overseen by Principal Jason Taylor and Assistant Principal Jason Arkulari, serves 6th to 8th-grade students in Kersey. With funding from the local district and the state, the school hosts a diverse student body of approximately 270 students, providing a balanced curriculum and a structured school day from 7:45 AM to 3:00 PM Monday-Friday. Students attend each class every day for 45 minutes for the span of a quarter. Although students aren't required to take art classes, most do. Non-academic duties consist of lunch duty, student lunch help, and team meetings once a week. There are also staff meetings once a month and parent-teacher conferences once a quarter. From an art standpoint, we have a performing and visual arts Gala once a year that showcases the talents of students from all three schools. The school has a unique blend of extracurricular and academic activities that make up a collaborative community.