with Ms. Ward
Ms. Ward’s most recent teaching assignment was right here in Austin as the math, science and art teacher at Terra Luz Community School. In this multi-age setting, she provided individualized instruction for both upper and lower elementary students, teaching at the appropriate skill level of each student and providing compelling individual challenges. She has also taught in the Round Rock, Leander and Eanes school districts, as well as the Waterloo Region District School Board in Ontario, Canada. Throughout her teaching career, Ms. Ward has specialized in experiential interdisciplinary learning and arts-integration.
Ms. Ward received her B.A. in Human Ecology—Textiles and Design from the College of Natural Sciences at UT Austin, where she also earned her certification in Business Foundations. She received her Texas teacher certification in Elementary Education (prek-6th) while working towards her Masters of Education at Texas State University. She also holds Texas teacher certification in Art (prek-12th) and ESL--English as a Second Language.
Growing up with parents who were professional potters; studying textiles and design in college; designing and constructing couture fashions for UT runway shows; studying culinary arts and working as a pastry chef and baker; consulting in interior design; teaching preschool art classes; specializing in arts-integration in her instruction; Ms. Ward has actively been involved in visual art and design at every stage of her life.
In her free time, Ms. Ward loves to go on outdoor adventures with her husband, three sons and two dogs. Local nature trails and swimming holes are some of her favorite places to explore. She also enjoys treasure hunting for vintage curios, spending time with her pets and engaging in fun science and art projects with her boys.
About the Teacher
Lifelong educator, Susan Ward, inspires students to explore their world and to think creatively and critically about their discoveries. She achieves this by developing hands-on learning experiences that are meaningful to her students and authentic to the world around us. Providing the tools and skills to her students to become socially and emotionally ready to take on life’s challenges is important to her as well. Ms. Ward empowers her students to find their voice, believe in themselves and ultimately make a difference in our world.
“I know in my heart that teaching is my calling, my passion. It brings me great joy to see my students’ faces light up with enthusiasm and wonderment when I introduce a new learning activity. Their reactions motivate me to create outstanding learning experiences, but more importantly the children are thoroughly engaged and eager to learn.”