Teacher Appreciation Week: Debbie Sylvia at Jackson Heights

Glens Falls City School District recognizes national Teacher Appreciation Week by highlighting committed and enthusiastic teachers from every one of our schools each day of the week! Read on for an inside interview with Debbie Sylvia—one of the most dynamic teachers around our district.

Mrs. Sylvia is an art teacher at Jackson Heights and Big Cross. She earned her associate's degree in fine art from the Junior College of Albany, her bachelor's degree with a NYS teaching certificate in Art K-12 from the College of Saint Rose, and her master's in special education from Russell Sage College. She has been teaching for 30 years, 27 of which are here in Glens Falls!

Fun fact about Mrs. Sylvia: Her concentration was photography at St. Rose, and she looks forward to building her photography business in retirement. At home she has a wonderful husband of 28 years, a beautiful daughter attending college at Plattsburgh and 2 fur babies who require a lot of belly rubs and attention.

"Through summer art programs Mrs. Sylvia led and creative projects ranging from classroom masterpieces that adorn the hallways of Jackson Heights to Bike Rodeo t-shirt designs, she has inspired countless young artists," says Principal Ryan Estey. "Her enthusiasm and dedication to the arts will continue to show through her students for many years to come."

What do you do to engage your students? What makes your teaching and learning style or environment unique?

I try to engage my students by making what they are creating valuable and of interest to them. I strive to include as many artists, art history, elements and principles of design and creative choice in my lessons. I want students to be able to explore art materials and become excited about their work and encourage them to continue exploring the creative arts in their future. 

Why do you think it's important to teach the way you do?

I feel that by honoring student voice, choice and ownership in works of art empowers students and fosters their artistic development and engagement. Learning about art involves problem solving, a "life" skill that can be applied to any career or path taken.

Describe your best lesson ever, or one you and students really enjoy.

Students seem to really enjoy learning about art from other cultures. By exploring art from other cultures, I see the enthusiasm generated by my students when they are gaining insights into the values, beliefs, and history that shape artistic expression around the world. 

What's the best thing about GF Nation?

The best thing about GF Nation after 27 years of teaching in this district specifically, is the amount of support by administration, faculty, staff, families and community for our strong Unified Arts programs. It has been a pleasure to have worked with so many dedicated and talented people. I will miss everyone!