Janice Gould
2002 Inductee

Art - Lawrence Hall Youth Services
Chicago, Illinois
Total years as a classroom teacher: 27

"A teacher can inspire children to want to learn, unlocking their creative potential and guiding them to want to participate in the educational process." - Janice Gould

One of the schools Janice Gould observed during her student teaching was Lawrence Hall. Lawrence Hall is a residential school for abused, neglected and abandoned children, most of which are inner city youth.

She believes that students who experience success in art will gain hope for their future. It can change their self image from one of incompetence to competence. This confidence will not only be present in their school environment, but also through the tough personal growth they have in front of them.

Gould initiated projects in which her students' art work is produced into holiday and note cards, school calendars, and a school yearbook. These peojects provide "refrigerator doors" to demonstrate her pride in her pupils' creations and accomplishments.

She submits her students' work to numerous art contests, one being the city of Chicago's vehicle sticker. In the last six years, her students have placed 2nd or 3rd. This year one of her students was the first place winner out of 400 entries.

She and her students began the "Permanent Children's Art Collection" for the Illinois State Board of Education. The purpose of this permanent exhibit is to serve as an inspiration to keep art programs in our schools and to demonstrate what special-needs children can create when given the proper environment to flourish.

"Janice has helped her students to accomplish dreams they themselves thought were unattainable. Through art, she has opened the door of opportunity to hundreds of her students. They have seen their work recognized at state, regional, and national competitions."--Shari Demitrowicz, Principal, Therapeutic Day School

"There were times in my life when I felt like my world was turning upside down. Then, there she was with a pencil and a piece of paper. I did not know what she meant, but gradually I began to understand as my drawing skills emerged. (She) kept telling me I could do it. The first time I won a contest, it made me start to believe in myself and that I could do more things." --Lakeysha Dunn, Student

"Janice rescues kids. She believes in them, helps them find their talents, opens the world to them and presents them to the world. Again and again, her students' art is displayed in the public arena, and they receive the appreciation and recognition that allows them to triumph over personal adversity and narrow horizons."--Penny A. Lundquist, Director of the Golden Apple Academy

Education

Teaching Experience

Special Honors, Awards and Presentations