Jonathan Juravich Lecture

The School of Art at Kent State University presents the next of the First Friday Lecture Series on Nov. 2 with Jonathan Juravich, 2018 Ohio Teacher of the Year and finalist for National Teacher of the Year. Mr. Juravich will speak about his approach to art education as well as his own artwork in his talk titled "The Power of Relational Connections." All lectures are free and open to the public and take place at noon in Room 165 at the Center for the Visual Arts.

An effective classroom and school community is built on strong relationships that foster trust, support and commitment. Consider several practical opportunities to engage school communities in this important work together with Mr. Juravich. He will share his experiences as an artist, elementary art educator and teacher leader who focuses on the connections that bind us together.

"Through strong communities and thoughtful relationships, educators can support the individual needs of their students," Mr. Juravich says. "But we must work to provide safe, educational environments for students so they can learn and are valued for who they are."

He has been with Olentangy Local Schools since 2005. Mr. Juravich also coaches cross country and track at Hyatts Middle School, and he is an Otterbein University adjunct instructor. As the district’s elementary art department chair, he develops curriculum and facilitates teacher professional development. In addition to overseeing parent-teacher organization partnerships and community service learning opportunities, he leads Liberty Tree Elementary School’s building environment team, which teaches children positive behaviors such as showing respect and empathy.