In honor of the upcoming National Arts in Education Week, two outstanding educators were honored with the Larry Hurt Excellence in Arts Education ARTI. The awards were presented at the Arts Council of Indianapolis’ 2017 Start With Art Luncheon on September 1. The 2017 Arts Education ARTI Award winners are Jeremy Mallov and Margarita Garcia, elementary school art teachers in Lawrence Township.

Jeremy Mallov, Amy Beverland Elementary

Jeremy Mallov is an elementary school art educator who utilizes his gifts as both a talented artist and highly effective teacher to make a positive impact on children. He facilitates learning through a detailed and structured art curriculum encompassing creativity, art appreciation, and art history and he creates cross-curricular learning opportunities by collaborating with classroom teachers. Beyond the typical drawing, molding clay, painting, and other art activities, Jeremy encourages students to use non-traditional materials and even junk to create unique art sculptures that decorate the hallways of the school. In the nomination, his principal said, “He is more than an arts educator. He is a valuable member of the culture and climate at Amy Beverland Elementary. He is a creative artist, an empowering educator, and a role model in our learning community.”

Margarita Garcia, Forest Glen Elementary School

Margarita Garcia has been an elementary school art teacher at Forest Glen Elementary School for two years. In that short time, she has managed to transform the look of the school through displays of student artwork, making the environment much more child-centered and inviting. She is an advocate for her students and works each and every day to ensure the best success for each of them. She meets students outside of class, runs clubs afterschool, teaches art to staff, spends time educating parents, and much more. The principal of Forest Glen said, “Her positive outlook on life along with her ability to find ways to work harmoniously with administrators and teachers make her an asset to Forest Glen. I can’t really find words to describe her abilities, creativity, and dedication to teaching art to children. She is an exemplar of integrity, service, and leadership and an inspiration to all students.”