from Jackson Elementary School — Jackson, Wisconsin

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Biography

Hello! Mrs. Schlitt here. Just wanted to tell you all a little about me. I have a wonderful husband and two amazing kids. Brady who is 14 and Brielle who is 11. We enjoy spending time together, playing games, going Up North and being silly.

Art has always been very important to me. Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to be an art teacher. As I grew up and had some very influential art teachers in my life, I knew even more that being an art teacher was my calling. I want students to see that they CAN do art, even when they think they can't! My favorite quote is, "There are no mistakes, just happy little accidents." Bob Ross! It's true, students need to see that they can turn anything into art and be proud of it. I want students to have fun and get excited about creating art and without even realizing it, learn from all their experimenting.

I am beyond humbled and honored to have received the Art Leadership Award. As I reflect on my seven years of teaching art at the amazing Jackson Elementary School with the West Bend School District, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and joy. The journey that led me here has been anything but conventional, and this recognition means more to me than words can express.

From a young age, I knew that art would always be a part of my life, but it wasn’t until high school that I truly understood its power. My art teacher at the time recognized and nurtured my talent, showing me that I was capable of creating beautiful things. His encouragement ignited a spark in me that has never gone out, and it was then that I knew I wanted to inspire others in the same way.

However, my path to becoming an art teacher was not immediate. It wasn’t until I was in my late 30s that I realized I needed to finish my degree and pursue teaching. After helping out in my own children’s school art room, I began to witness the profound impact I could have on students. I saw the magic in their eyes when they realized that they, too, were artists. I knew in my heart that this was what I was meant to do.

The most rewarding part of teaching is seeing that moment when a student discovers their own creativity. It’s when they realize that they are worthy of expressing themselves through art and that someone believes in their ability to create. That is the feeling I strive to bring to every one of my students, and it is what inspires me every day.

Receiving this award was an incredibly emotional moment for me. I couldn’t help but tear up, as I thought of all the students who have touched my heart throughout my teaching career. Art is such an essential part of education, especially in helping students express their feelings and emotions. In today's world, that outlet is more important than ever.

As soon as I received the news, I called my family to share the exciting moment. They’ve seen the passion and light that teaching brings into my life, and I’m so grateful for their unwavering support. I feel truly privileged to be recognized in the field of art education, especially knowing how many talented and deserving teachers there are in our community.

One of the tools that has made a significant impact in my classroom is Artsonia. It has been a game changer for both me and my students. Artsonia gives my students a platform to showcase their artwork, and the feedback they receive from their families boosts their confidence and self-esteem. They eagerly await the upload of their projects and love seeing their artwork shared with loved ones, no matter the distance. Parents and grandparents have shared how much they cherish seeing their child's work, and I love seeing my students’ pride when they talk about their art.

Artsonia has also been an incredible source of inspiration for me. I’ve had the privilege of connecting with other art educators, exchanging ideas, and continually learning. It is truly one of the best things I’ve brought into my classroom, and I’m excited to see how it continues to evolve.

To be selected as one of only 15 teachers for this prestigious award is still surreal to me. It’s an honor I will carry with pride, and I am deeply grateful to all who have supported me on this journey. Teaching art is not just about the lessons I teach—it’s about the connections I make and the encouragement I provide to every student. I hope to continue inspiring students to discover their own creative potential for many years to come.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my journey. This recognition is not just mine, but for every student who has ever dared to believe in themselves as an artist.

Personal Art Gallery