Mia Arends -- Advisor; Ar

marends@lwsd.org

Phone: 425-828-3289 extension 570

 Mia's Core frolics in the snow

I began teaching Art at BEST in 1992.  In my years here, I have taught most of the arts and crafts, Photography, Environmental Science, and Word History / Art.  I have been Yearbook advisor and really enjoy teaching Core and working with families. It has been a wonderful experience to work with the highly creative and talented students that come through our doors here.

In 1996 I wrote a grant to participate in an educational exchange with an alternative school in Russia.  BEST had five Russian students and their teacher for eight weeks, and then I took six students to Russian to go to school.  It was a very mind-opening experience.

In 1997 I was in an accident and became paralyzed. My condition continues to improve, but limits my hours and abilities.  I job-share with Evelyn, who is a talented art teacher and photographer. BEST is a great environment for a wheelchair, and the staff and students are very helpful. I have learned more than I wanted to know about disabilities, and hope I can share my perspective with others.

At home my artistic interests are painting, digital photography, collage, ceramics, and music. Reading is a passion. My husband and I have sent the youngest of our children off to college and are experiencing "empty nest" syndrome- equal amounts relief, worry, missing her, glad to have her off on her own.

I teach Art as a subject area but believe that it is therapeutic for many students. I hope my students will leave BEST with knowledge to appreciate art, with skills to create art, and with permission to keep doing art even if it’s only for themselves. The process is sometimes more valuable than the product.

I believe in the way we do things at BEST.  My son is a BEST graduate, class of '95.  The family analogy here is a good one.  I have had the support and encouragement to return to teaching after my disabling accident, and am enjoying teaching and advising as much as ever.

Please visit the BEST Art Department page for more info on my classes and what we are doing.

Mia's Core having a little fun in the snow.

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