My name is Melissa Maxson, but I'm known by most as just simply … Maxson.
I grew up on a farm in a small township in northeastern Ohio right down the street from the classic Geauga Lake Amusement Park. I wasn’t sure where I wanted to take my career as I headed towards the end of my high school career, but one thing was for sure … I loved art. Not only was my class great, but my art teacher changed my life as he motivated me to follow in his steps working with kids. I have always been interested in photography, drawing, painting, and crafts.
I am confident that growing up where I did helped shape my imagination and helped mold me into what an art teacher should be like.
I attended Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio which was such a great time in my life! I went in as a Bachelor of Fine Arts Major rockin out the education program so I could teach when I was done. BGSU is known for its education program, and for good reason! I feel very blessed to have had the training & experiences that truly prepared me for real word teaching! Both of my student teaching experiences were valuable, but when it came down to my real passion, I loved working with high school students hands down. They were fun, energetic, and brought out the best in me.
I have traveled all over the world to places like Poland, Argentina, Germany, France, and most recently to Africa for 5 ½ weeks on a Fulbright Hays Scholarship to study how art impacts societies all over the world. I’ve done curriculum research about art classes, examined how students are impacted by art, and explored how art is used in communities to communicate ideas.
My career choice has literally changed my life and helped me understand how art is a wicked cool vehicle to bring kids out of their shell. I love Art !!! I’ve been through a few schools already most recently through Canal Winchester Middle School and now back to Big Walnut High School which I realize that I LOVE. Nothing to me feels more comfortable than the feeling I have working with these great high school kids.
