Luke Hadley
Art teacher at Stevens Brook Elementary School (Bridgton, ME) and Crooked River Elementary School (Casco, ME)
Why did you choose to become an educator in the arts?
Growing up, I was a shy quiet kid. My art teachers knew this and helped me to find my voice by using art. I chose to become an art educator to help students find their voice the same way my art teachers helped me to find mine.
What do you wish more people knew about arts education?
I wish more people knew how important art is to a students educational experience. I feel like if more people knew how much learning goes on during art making then there would be more opportunities for students to participate in art making.
Why is arts education important for K-12 students?
Arts education is important for K-12 schools because the arts give students a break from all of the other responsibilities they have in school. Students are overwhelmed with school work in school everyday and when they finally get the chance to paint, draw, sculpt etc. they get to feel a sense of freedom from the rest of the work they have to do for school.
Why do you believe it is important for art educators to participate in YAM?
YAM allows art educators all over Maine to see what other educators are up to with their students. I find it very valuable to be able to see what other art teachers are making with their students. That way, I can bounce ideas off of the work they are doing and vice versa.
“I chose to become an art educator to help students find their voice the same way my art teachers helped me to find mine. ”
The PMA has the Susie Konkel Pass, giving everyone 21 and under free admission; The Tidal Shift Award, a youth art prize focused on solutions for climate change; Free School Tours; and Youth Art Month, but can do more for our young communities and emerging artists. What would you like to see the museum do more of in the coming years around youth engagement? What’s missing?
I would like to see the PMA offer more opportunities for students to showcase their artwork there. Youth Art Month is such a great way for young artists to be able to share their work with the community. I wonder what other ways the PMA could help young emerging artists get their work shown.
What do you think a museum’s role could be within our society?
I think a museum's role in our society should be to provide a safe space for learning, community engagement and to offer experiences for people to be able to create art.
Outside of your role as an arts educator, what role does art play in your life?
I love to cook, dance and occasionally play an instrument. I am slowly learning how to play the keyboard.