In Malea Gascho’s high school sculpture class, students are collaborating to create a large-scale Timber Rattlesnake out of cardboard. This project not only hones their artistic skills but also raises environmental awareness.
Each day, the class develops a strategy and divides tasks among its members. While some focus on crafting the snake’s head, others measure and construct the scales. Additional students work on building the spine or ribs, and a few experiment with prototypes for the rattle’s mechanism.
In Ms. Gascho’s classes, every student finds their niche, contributing their unique math and art skills to realize a shared vision. She emphasizes the importance of every voice being heard during the decision-making process.
Ms. Gascho is committed to teaching her students art skills that extend beyond the classroom, fostering creativity that will benefit them throughout their lives. Students explore their “why” – the reason behind their creations. Through research, students discovered people often harm endangered Timber rattlesnakes out of fear, despite their harmlessness when not provoked.
Her dedication to her students and their artistic journey is clear. Playful yet serious, organized yet fun, Ms. Gascho embodies the ideal art teacher and her own artistic spirit shines through. She regularly showcases her own artwork at local exhibitions. From grades 6 to 12, she nurtures not only artistic skills but also a love for creativity, risk- taking, playfulness, and collaboration. Entering her classroom feels like stepping into a welcoming haven, filled with an open invitation: Let’s create something together!
