EDUCATORS >> LOCAL TEACHERS
“I loved the feeling I had in her classroom. The confidence I felt, I wanted to create that for my students,” she said. In her role, Reno teaches about 125 students each year, from the first days in elementary school to their last. Reno said that one of the best parts of her job is being able to watch these students grow in their craft from a young age, while developing skills in creativity and collaboration. “I try to celebrate everyone’s individuality,” she said. Even during stressful times, Reno said she has a great support network of other teachers and colleagues, and she looks forward to the energy the kids have when they come to art class. “We have a lot of fun, I once had a super excited student ask if I would work his birthday party,” Reno said with a laugh. She said moments like this are what make being an art teacher fun. Reno has spent 15 years as a teacher in the Alachua County schools system after obtaining her degree in art education from the University of Florida. All of her time in the industry has been spent at Norton Elementary School; however, as of the 2019-2020 school year Reno is now teaching at Meadowbrook. Despite any changes to come, Reno said she loves her work and is always inspired by her students and other educators. One educator that stands out to her is Beani Backus, an artist and art teacher during the Jim Crow era. “He is an amazing teacher and he empowered his students,” she said. “Although it was a different time and situation, I try to empower my kids in the same way.” September/October 2019
OUR TOWN MAGAZINE
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