Why Wednesday - Taylor Hoffer❤🦓
Meet Mrs. Hoffer: a vibrant presence at Claremore High School, where she has been inspiring young minds for the past five years as an Art Teacher and the sponsor of the Art Club. Her teaching journey began here at CPS, and the spark was ignited by her high school Art teacher, who nurtured her love for art and instilled a deep-seated passion for education. Reflecting on her mentor's unwavering support, Mrs. Hoffer was compelled to follow in those inspiring footsteps, forging a path to make a lasting impact on her own students. She was the first person to push Mrs. Hoffer towards considering a future in education. She told us, "My art teacher told me that I would make a good art teacher, and that compliment stuck with me until I was ready to enroll in college. All the pieces fell perfectly into place- my future was clear; this is what I was always meant to do."
Why Statement:
"I teach to unleash and develop the talent in young artists. I love working with beginners who are only discovering their gifts and advanced artists who need guidance and someone to coach them through the process. I want to be in the classroom to be available to kids who need support, comfort, a safe space, and love. The most important thing about teaching is that each kid walks out of my classroom knowing they are respected and loved. Lastly, I want kids to understand that art is for everyone and is a very learnable skill. Art has endless possibilities, from the mediums you use to the subjects you draw and your work style. I want to open the door to that world of opportunities and thrust them into it.
Over the last five years, I've improved so much as a teacher thanks to my students, who have taught me as much as I have taught them, and my supportive coworkers and admin. I teach Art 1, Art 2, studio art, and AP art. My students have won over $10,000 in scholarships over the years and awards from both Young Talent in Oklahoma and Scholastic, including a national medal. I have written several successful grants for my classroom needs; CPSF has helped to transform my classroom and opportunities for my students completely. I enjoy sponsoring the art club and hosting an after-school open studio, a program where students can come into my classroom each Thursday after school to work on art, paint, create pottery on the wheel, etc. I am exactly where I am supposed to be at CHS, and honestly, I can't see myself teaching anywhere else. If I have it my way, this will be where I retire and make the rest of my memories teaching art.
Attached is a photo of me and my little brother and sister, who are twins. I was so fortunate to spend time with them in school and watch them graduate this year. I am so proud of them ❤️."
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE