Meet the Teachers  at Seth Whitman Elementary School (belvidere, Illinois)

Alaiyha Gibson Hello Seth Artists and Families, I’m so excited to be your child’s art teacher this year! My name is Mrs. Gibson, and this is my 8th year teaching elementary art—and my first year at Seth! I earned my B.S.Ed. in Art Education from Northern Illinois University in 2018 and later completed my Master’s degree in Art Education at The Ohio State University in 2021. Outside the classroom, I’m a wife and mom to a one-year-old daughter and a five-year-old son! I’m passionate about creating art and helping s ... read moretudents express what matters most to them through their work. I teach from a social justice and abolitionist framework, and I believe every child has a unique story to tell. This year, we’ll explore our personal and cultural identities through the lens of diverse contemporary artists, meaningful literature, and impactful artworks. In my classroom, students are empowered to use their voices—to advocate, inspire, and connect through their creativity. I can’t wait to see what your amazing young artists will create! Please don’t hesitate to reach out, stop by, or volunteer—we’d love to have you! You can contact me anytime at agibson@district100.com. Looking forward to a fun-filled, inspiring year of art with your child! Warmly, Mrs. Gibson Send compliment