I am Leah Yurk, the Art teacher at W. J. Gurganus Elementary. I am a 2014 graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University located in Mount Vernon, Ohio. This is my 10th year teaching, and my 2nd year teaching at WJG. I am thrilled to continue to build our artists through the Visual Arts program here. 

As an art educator, I strive to teach and engage all of my students in lessons about past and present art and artists from around the world. I teach the foundational Elements and Principles of Art, and incorporate as many new art making methods as I can. These include painting, printmaking, sculpting with clay, collage, sewing, weaving, mosaics, and so much more!

My hope for your child is that every time they exit my classroom they have encountered at least one of the following critical learning moments that produce growth in awareness, perseverance in trials, and refinement of character:

1. Gaining insight to see and think in a new way
2. Persevering in a skill or technique they initially doubted they could do
3. Celebrating the growth and learning of another artist in our class
   
   

 I am a native to Gastonia, NC, but have learned to call New Bern home. In my free time you will find me grinning ear to ear as my husband and I play with our four-year old son. Being his Mommy is my biggest adventure yet and I'm loving every moment. I also enjoy Thursday movie nights, reading before going to bed, cooking with my husband, and taking long walks outside. A special place in my heart is the beach, specifically Rodanthe, NC in the Outer Banks. My family has visited there many times, and I'm excited to share my sweet son has visited and loves the sand and surf even more than I do. 

I look forward to creating this year with my students!