Shaping clay and minds

Whether it's teaching the finer aspects of drawing, or the molding of clay, Noel Shepherd is excited to be the new art teacher at Saratoga Middle/High School.

Shepherd is from Rawlins, and she graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in art education in 2012.

"I have always loved art, that's why I have decided to pursue it as a career," Shepherd said. "I also love teaching. I consider both of them to be passions of mine."

This is Shepherd's first job at a public school, but she is no stranger to teaching. For her first two years out of college, she taught preschool in Carbon County. When the art teaching position opened up in Saratoga this spring, Shepherd decided to apply for it.

"I was lucky enough to get this [job]," she said.

Shepherd said the first thing about Saratoga that sticks out to her is how friendly everyone is. Additionally, she said the students and the administration have been very helpful with getting her started as a new teacher.

"I love that (the school) is smaller, so I have more one-on-one time with the students and I can get to know them better," Shepherd said. "I get to know the students more as individuals as the year goes on."

As the only art teacher in the school, Shepherd said it is not difficult to plan lessons for a variety of grades, but it is different.

"Every grade level has their different abilities," she said. "But I don't find it difficult."

Getting everything ready was the most challenging aspect for her as a new teacher. However, she is becoming more comfortable with the classroom as the weeks progress.

The biggest challenge for Shepherd might be outside of the classroom. Because her family resides in Rawlins, she will be commuting 40 miles every day to teach in Saratoga.

Shepherd enjoys teaching all parts of art, but she said she particularly enjoys teaching ceramics.

"It's my absolute favorite thing to do personally, and I am excited to teach it."

As a whole, Shepherd said she is excited to be working in Saratoga, and looking forward to working with the staff and students at Saratoga Middle/High School.