Mr. David Partida is a P.S. ARTS Teaching Artist who teaches visual arts for the Lynwood Unified School District. We love his eclectic approach to arts education and the different mediums he incorporates into his lessons. We interviewed Mr. Partida about his techniques and ideas and what he’s learned as a P.S. ARTS Teaching Artist. Find out more below!
Tell us about yourself and your art discipline.
My name is David Partida. I’m a dancer, musician, and visual artist. I teach Native dancing and music in the L.A. community of El Sereno. I also play with a Mexican folk group promoting the style of music known as jarocho. I currently teach visual arts at Abbott Elementary in Lynwood, CA. I create videos that are sent to the district for distribution. The videos are catered to Pre-K students on through 6th grade. Since I teach asynchronously I have no interaction with students. I have recently taken on a group of students where we meet live weekly.
What does your current teaching setup look like? What are some tools that are essential to your virtual classroom these days?
Essential tools to teach asynchronously, and synchronously for that matter, is the equipment we were provided. A backdrop, lighting, tablet, and stands have proven effective. I constantly hear horror stories from other educators in regards to their support and set-up. Gaining familiarity with technology has also been a great asset. Being able to create presentations makes virtual learning a bit more bearable.
Share a “magic moment” you experienced teaching in the last year.
I had a magic moment before the winter break where I was given the opportunity to host a Q & A with my 4th-6th graders. During the session a number of them were showing me artwork they created based on the videos I created. That was proof and motivation for me to keep going.
Who is an artist you are currently inspired by?
I’m currently inspired by ecological art which highlights environmental issues or uses materials that will benefit our world. Artists in particular include Benjamin Von Wong and Leo Sewell.
How has teaching for P.S. ARTS shaped your practice as a Teaching Artist?
P.S. ARTS has given me the opportunity to practice and improve my craft as an art educator while providing arts for underserved communities. Years of teaching have navigated me to reflect on my practices so that I may be able to help people tap into their creativity, thus making the world a better place.
Thank you for sharing with us, Mr. Partida! We appreciate your work and love what you do!
