Compiled by Darlene Bowers
Welcome to the Ada Icon’s “Ada Teacher Feature.” Here we share thoughts and insights from local teachers who lift up and inspire our students. Let us lift up and inspire these educators as well.
Today we meet Gary Wells, art teacher, whose advice is to “do what you love.” Gary joins Steve Jobs, Maya Angelou, Ray Bradbury and a whole host of others proclaiming this same mantra as he works each day in the art room to support our students with motivation for success.
• Subjects and grades currently teaching.
High School art grades 8 - 12 and Ceramics 1, 2 and 3.
• Extracurricular activities, groups, clubs, sports with which you are involved.
I am the junior high quiz bowl instructor.
• Degrees earned and from which institutions.
Ada High School 1986, University of Findlay B.A. in Art Education 1994, University of Saint Francis Masters in Studio Art 2002
• How long in teaching profession?
I've been teaching for 22 years. I taught my first year in Lima as an elementary art teacher. I was hired at Ada the next year and I've been at Ada ever since.
• Why are you a teacher?
I have to say that I'm a teacher because of my high school art teacher. He really encouraged me to not only follow art, but to pursue teaching.
• What motivates you?
It may sound silly, but great art motivates me - what I mean is that when my students are doing a particular project really well, I get really excited and I look forward to them getting back in the classroom and continuing work.
• What’s the best advice you give students?
I know it sounds cliché, but I tell them to figure out what they love and then figure out how to make a living doing it.
• What’s the best advice you can give parents and caregivers?
I would say to just support your child's interests and endeavors and it really helps to support the school and the teachers too.
• What’s the best thing students can do for you?
Succeed. I would like every student to be successful in life, to do something they love and hopefully make money doing it.
• What’s the best thing parents and caregivers can do for you?
The first thing that comes to mind is to support. It's nice to know that a parent will back you up and help guide their student.
• What makes Ada schools unique or different?
Of course I'm going to say the fine arts. The Arts programs have a long history of support and success, and it’s very rewarding to be part of this program. I think because of the ground work that has been laid we have many awesome opportunities to put our own stamp on things and I have to say that the community and the school board have been great supporters.
• Best or most memorable teaching moment?
Last year my students won the top award in each competition we entered. We always do well, but last year was a clean sweep.
• What excites, interests and captivates you outside the classroom?
I have three sons that keep me busy and three beautiful grandchildren.
• Best advice for students who are graduating from high school soon?
Don't stop paying attention in class! You don't want to have to re-learn things in college that you should already know.
• If you weren’t a teacher what would yoube doing?
If I wasn't a teacher I think I would still be in the Army. It's probably a good thing that I'm a teacher.
