Numerous studies have concluded that the ability to tap into one's creative side can result in both physical and mental health benefits. For this reason, we have decided to take a slight detour from the H.E.R.O.S. norm to provide a little recognition to Coronado High School's own Jessica Sellers.

Ms. Sellers is originally from Missouri, where she grew up inspired to become an educator due to a great admiration for the teaching prowess of her mother. She received an M.S. in Art Education in her home state prior to relocating to Nevada. She has now been teaching for the Clark County School District for over 16 years, dedicating her life to combining education and artistic expression as a means to positively impact the students of Coronado H.S.

As an art teacher, Ms. Sellers has seen many students reap the benefits of artistic tutelage and creativity over the years. As a matter of fact, if her name sounds familiar to you, it may very well be because of the outstanding showing by her students in the annual Trust-sponsored Art Contest year after year. (Turn to page 23 of this issue as a perfect example.)

I was recently lucky enough to get a few minutes of Ms. Sellers' time to discuss her experiences as an art teacher. In regard to the studies concerning the health and wellness benefits of art and whether she has seen evidence in her students, she had this to say: "I think that art is very relaxing. I have a lot of students that want to be lawyers, doctors and nurses. They learn that while they may not choose to become artists, art is relaxing for them. It reduces stress, helps them to express themselves and to stay happy."

Of course, she has seen these same benefits in her own personal life over the years as she has melded a love of art into her many hobbies and activities. "When I work on my personal artwork, it's relaxing and a great way to unwind and make myself feel better. I also enjoy getting out in the desert to walk around with my husband so I can find rocks to sculpt." She has also furthered her pursuit of wellness through art by assisting some of our furry friends by working with her students in an annual food drive and silent auction. All proceeds from these activities are used to aid animal advocacy groups and no-kill shelters in the community. It is just one more artistic endeavor she engages in as a means to better the world for the students, community and herself.

Ms. Sellers has clearly mastered wellness through art, so I had to inquire whether there is a connection between this well-being and the way in which her students have consistently excelled in the many art contests they enter each year. "I really try to be more of a coach rather than a teacher when it comes to their artwork. A lot of them do not realize how far they can go until pushed to reach their potential."

I was left without a doubt that the students of Coronado are quite lucky to have Ms. Sellers. Her endless quest to positively impact students and the world around them through artistic expression is awe-inspiring, to say the least. It is why Jessica Sellers embodies the spirit and energy that makes our educational community so special. It is also why she is yet another community hero you should know!

Philip DiGiacomo
Contributor

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