EEISD Celebrates National Arts in Education Week with Teacher Spotlight Mr. Jesus Tijerina, Art Teacher!
September 11, 2024 — Edcouch-Elsa Independent School District (EEISD) is proud to join schools across the nation in celebrating National Arts in Education Week, a time to recognize the transformative power of the arts in the lives of students. As part of this celebration, we are shining a spotlight on Mr. Jesus Tijerina, an esteemed art teacher at PFC Ybarra Fine Arts Academy, who has been inspiring students through art for 17 years.
Mr. Tijerina’s passion for art began with his love for the work of Albrecht Dürer. “Dürer’s use of line and the incredible detail in his engravings really spoke to me,” Tijerina shared. “That’s what led me to pen and ink and learning how to create value through line variation. I also connect with Dürer’s journey, as he was apprenticed by his father, much like I was taught a trade growing up.”
His own journey into the arts was solidified during his second college art class, which changed how he saw art. “My professor had us draw everyday objects from different viewpoints, and it opened my eyes to what art could be. Before that, I didn’t know much about art beyond the simple assignments I did in high school,” he said. This experience shaped his approach to teaching, as he now helps his students hone their skills by encouraging them to draw things they love, such as their favorite shows or toys.
Over the years, Mr. Tijerina has guided countless students toward success, and his approach is simple but effective: “The opportunities are there; students just have to work to achieve their goals. Our district already has a strong history of success, with many graduates earning college degrees while still in high school.”
A memorable moment for Mr. Tijerina and his students came when they visited the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) in McAllen. “Seeing their faces light up as they experienced art in person was priceless. You can explain the dimensions of a piece in class, but seeing it up close is an entirely different experience,” he recalled.
National Arts in Education Week, first recognized by Congress in 2010, is a national celebration that raises awareness about the importance of the arts in education. It advocates for equitable access to arts education for all students, encouraging leaders to invest in the future of our youth.
Edcouch-Elsa ISD is proud to celebrate the power of the arts and the role teachers like Mr. Tijerina play in shaping the creative minds of tomorrow.