Meet Mr. Parker
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INFLUENCES
I have been interested in the arts for as long as I can remember. My family has played a major role in my decision to pursue art as well as education as a career. My father is a welder. He has always been a very tactile person, moving from one project to the next, building things from various materials ranging from wood to steel. He has taught me to be very organized, to practice good craftsmanship and to take pride in my work. After I was born my mother chose to start working in childcare. She was always sure to make art materials readily available for me, my siblings and the children she cared for. She encourages creativity and exploration, using different media and trying new things. From a young age she has opened my eyes to a range of art forms such as painting, drawing, mosaics and wax resists. I am the oldest of three children. I have always tried my best to be a leader and set a positive example for my younger brother and sister. Through the years a have enjoyed showing them new forms of art and watching their interests grow. We continue still to share, collaborate and critique each other's work.
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EDUCATION
I attended the University of Toledo and studied Art Education
with a concentration in cyber art, graphic design and computer animation and have since received a master's degree in education.
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EXPERIENCE
After graduating college I worked in Gahanna as an Alternative Instructor, collaborating closely with Intervention Specialists to accommodate students with special needs for four years. I then was hired to teach visual arts for the Gahanna school district. I have experience teaching grades K through 8, but teaching middle school is where I feel most at home. I am excited to continue working for such an exemplary district in an area that I feel so passionate about.
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WHEN I'M NOT TEACHING
When I'm not teaching I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I am fortunate to come from a tight knit family that truly are some of my best friends. My wife and I enjoy spending time with our son, creating and admiring art, listening to music especially when it is live, taking walks, going camping, road trips, treating ourselves to a good meal, and coffee. We love coffee.
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I'm looking forward to meeting you.
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