Art instructor wants to paint a bright future for students

Editor’s Note: This is the first in a series of articles about the new teachers at area schools.

HARTINGTON – Heather Showen has always had a passion for art.

Mix that in with her strong desire to help others and her caring nature, and it’s obvious the new Cedar Catholic art teacher has developed the perfect color palate of experiences to help students bring their artistic talents to life.

Showen, a Laurel-Concord High School graduate, will teach art to Cedar Catholic Junior High and high school students this year.

The 2011 Wayne State College graduate recently held a similar position at Laurel-Concord- Coleridge Schools.

She also taught at East-West Catholic Elementary School.

Although she didn’t know just how or where she would some day practice her artistic craft, Showen said she always knew she would teach at some time in her life.

“I think I have always had that innate feeling of being a teacher in some shape or form,” she said. “I have worked with others in a variety of spectrums throughout my life and I initially wanted to go into just studio arts out of high school, but one of my college professors really encouraged me to consider education.”

She has always been the type of person to help others and show empathy toward everyone.

“My grandma used to call me ‘Mother hen,’ as I would always want to help and protect my younger siblings, teaching and guiding them,” she said. “I think that caring nature has helped me to gain knowledge in a variety of instances. Becoming a mother has also shaped me in wanting the best in teachers and educators as well for my children.”

Her desire and ability to teach are not limited to the classroom, either.

“Being a teacher doesn’t always necessarily mean working directly within a school. You can be a teacher and a guide for others outside of the classroom within your community but also in your family dynamic,” she said.

Showen said she has had several role models “as the years have gone on, and I have grown and learned in the teaching profession.”

She noted her high school art teacher at Laurel, Arlys Monson, really helped her develop her love and appreciation of art and teaching.

She has learned from many others, as well, Showen said.

“My college professors also taught me a lot. Also, people here in the community who are involved with church and activities,” she said. “I continually strive to be a role model for myself,