Have you ever wondered what fuels the creative learning experiences at All Saints? Behind every project, showcase, and lesson is a teacher whose own journey was shaped by an inspiring mentor.
All Saints educators are drawn to our school for its values, creative freedom, and the opportunity to teach in a way that reflects their own influences. Many of them carry lessons from the mentors who once inspired them. Over the next few weeks, we’ll introduce you to these influential figures in a special series.
We begin with Ms. Hopkins, who often reflects on the impact of her college professor, Dr. Marilyn Stewart. She hopes Dr. Stewart would be proud of the educator she has become—and through her teaching, that influence continues to shape your child’s education.
The Professor Who Transformed My Teaching
by Chevon Hopkins
Dr. Marilyn Stewart was the kind of professor who didn’t just teach, but transformed. I’ll never forget the moment she completely shifted how I viewed my potential as both an artist and a teacher. It happened during a lesson on creating curriculum with the student in mind. Marilyn showed us how much influence teachers can have by connecting deeply with their students, something I hadn’t fully realized before.
She taught us to always consider the why, how, when, and where of lessons, and most importantly, how those questions tie to the art-making process. At the time, I knew I could create art and share it with students, but Marilyn helped me see that I could also help my students think like artists.
Her influence lives on in my work at All Saints. When I design curriculum with deliberate variety, growth, and cohesiveness for the Grades 4-8 Hat Show projects, I’m applying Marilyn’s principles of student-centered design and artistic thinking. Her methodical approach to the ‘why’ behind each lesson guides how I structure the developmental progression in our Spring Showcase, where our younger students’ evolving skills and imagination are highlighted. Marilyn’s insistence on connecting art-making to students’ lived experiences shapes how I introduce classroom projects that encourage personal expression while building technical foundations. The way she taught us to balance structure with creative freedom informs every aspect of my teaching practice at All Saints.
The Hat Show particularly embodies Marilyn’s philosophy as students transform materials into expressions of their identities, just as she transformed my understanding of teaching art.
Marilyn’s impact was a game-changer, not just for my career, but for how I see myself as a teacher. Her open-mindedness and dedication to helping students unlock their potential continues to inspire me. If there’s one thing I would want other educators to take from Marilyn, it’s this: always see the potential in each student and connect lessons to their individual experiences. Marilyn Stewart remains a guiding light in my teaching journey.
Experience the All Saints Difference
Curious to see this kind of learning in action? We’d love to show you! Join us for a tour and discover how an All Saints education can inspire your child.
📅 Schedule a visit today! Simply fill out our inquiry form or email our admissions office at jharrison@allsaintsdayschool.org.
We look forward to welcoming you to our community!
