After taking Art in 7th and 8th grade and being infatuated with drawing, I took a break in 9th grade. Not receiving credits for my two years in the class and being required to re-learn everything I had already been taught twice now wasn’t in my best interest. Plus, I had a full schedule. When sophomore year rolled around, I decided to use my free period for Art, hoping to spark my interest again, and spark it did.
I met Amanda Bartee for the first time in 5th period. She had colorful hair and a vibe that just screamed that she actually cared about what she was doing. Once the first “About me” presentation concluded, I knew I had a new favorite teacher. I spent one of my first interactions with her interviewing her for a story that meant a lot to me. Through that conversation, I learned she had a real talent for drawing and sculpting, alongside an actual care for what rules were put in place for her students.
Ms. Bartee is an absolute joy to be around. She helped me love art again and has been supportive along the entire way. I’ve had many moments in her class where I was excited to come to 5th period just so I could sculpt with clay, make a Christmas ornament or create a silly alien toy that I still keep on my desk. In one of our more recent projects in which we created a clay mug, I’ve really learned how much I adore sculpting and 3D art. She’s been encouraging and kind, no matter what we create, really hammering down on why we should be kind to others and their creations. I was a little bummed out with my mug at first, but she never stopped for one minute and said anything but “I love how it came out” or “it looks so good, you should consider VASE.”
Every single day, she sets out candy and mints for her class to grab after lunch when we come back. She keeps it stocked with things we like and even gives some out to students she doesn’t have. One day, a student didn’t have a jacket while it was pouring cold rain outside, and she brought him a hot chocolate to help him out. I’ve had many times where I either didn’t bring water, drank all of it or didn’t have time to pack an appropriate lunch, and she has always given me something without asking for anything in return. That’s just the kind of person she is.
All in all, I wouldn’t wish for any other Art teacher but her. I enjoy every moment in her class, and I am so appreciative of her and her actions. If I don’t get her next year, I’m sure going to miss those mints.
