Teaching Philosophy

Hi, I am Deja Milany Jones and

I am a Secondary Crafts & Fibers Creative Educator.

I have had the amazing opportunity to work in diverse environments including everything from adult

workshops to formal High School classes since 2013. With my foundation being in a wide range

of teaching environments, I have had the time to develop a deep commitment to fostering a

learning environment that is inclusive, empowering, and celebrates creativity, diversity, and

growth. In general, my teaching style is grounded in the principles of Progressivism &

Reconstructionism. My mission is to ensure that I cultivate a safe space for independence,

exploration, & discovery by integrating Project Based Learning & Design Thinking Strategies

into my curriculum.

In order to create a strong foundation for my students to build on, I believe it is pertinent to

recognize the rich history of craft & fibers, while highlighting the contributions that marginalized

people & communities have provided to the art world. By providing this additional layer of artistic

tradition within cultural and historical contexts, students are able to gain a deeper appreciation

for diverse narratives and voices which help to carve the beautiful facets of our shared

experiences as humans. Through exploration of mediums & techniques, students are

encouraged to analyze challenge their own identities & perspectives while honoring and being

inspired by the legacies of those who came before them.

In addition to being a tool for self expression, I believe that art also can promote meditation,

therapy, personal growth and transformation. I like to make room for my students to explore the

inherent creativity that they have within them and use it as a form of release. Centering my

students allows me to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where students feel safe

to embrace their unique narrative, express their emotions, & build strength and ability to be

resilient in times of adversity.

As a creative educator I have recognized the importance of continuous learning and dedication

to personal growth. I am and always will be committed to honing my craft as an artist and

educator by sharing my journey with my students. I model curiosity, resilience, a growth mindset

and dedication to my passion. I find it extremely important to maintain my own artistic practice,

which engages me in creative exploration & self-expression. This keeps me connected to the

joy and fulfillment that art brings to my life in turn allowing me to bring passion and authenticity

to my classroom.

Lastly, by building interdisciplinary connections with real world applications and providing

students with multiple access points to understanding content, students can see how

transformative art can be. I can help start and guide conversations about inspiring change,

social norms, empathy, communities and more. This ensures students understand that the art

world offers diverse opportunities for careers and is influential in driving change in our society.

I want to cultivate an inclusive learning environment where students feel safe and respected

enough to make mistakes and be themselves & feel respected. aMy classroom is a space

where students can share their stories, support their peers and their artistic journeys and

celebrate the beautifully transformative power art has to inspire, heal and unite us all.