Cook, Thomas

I have been teaching at Harding Senior High School since 1995.   I went to Saint John's University for my undergraduate and earned a B.A. with a major in Art, then I went to Augsburg College for my teaching license, then I went to Saint Mary's University to earn my Master's in Education degree, and then I went to Minnesota State University, Mankato for my Specialist License.   I have taught Drawing, American Indian Art, Sculpture, IB Visual Art and Design, and mostly Ceramics.

I make a lot of my own art while teaching.   I find that students learn more when they can see examples of techniques "live, up close and in person."   I work very hard and have high expectations for my students.   My ceramics class works especially well for those who are self-motivated, self-directed and can work well independently.   Electives, especially mine, use ALL  of the other core content areas information.   I use math, english, and science within my course, although, not in an "official" capacity.   You will use what you have learned in English, especially writing. Science, especially physics and biology.   Math, especially geometry, but much can be learned in all other areas of education in my classes, such as patience and self determination. I like to make my class fun (to a point).   There have been some very serious artists who have emerged from my classes.   

I enjoy bicycling, photography, gardening, cooking (seriously), freestyle frisbee, disc golf and too many other things to mention.