Meet the Teacher

  

 

Hello!

My name is Tara Ott.  I am originally from Chicago, Illinois.  This is my eleventh year at New Hope Elementary.   

I earned my Bachelors in Dance and Elementary Education from the University of Iowa, Go Hawks!  I taught dance for seven years before heading back into the classroom.  Since then, I have completed my Masters degree in Elementary Education and my Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership. 

The arts have always been a pivotal part of my life.  I believe that children learn best through artistic creation.  In my classroom, students create and collaborate on a daily basis, transforming academic content into artistic ideas.  Learning is fun, memorable, and challenges students to think in new ways.  Teaching creative movement provides students a weekly opportunity to learn through movement.  It is my objective to increase academic achievement and empower students to find their voice.   

In addition to loving the arts, I am value the relationships I have with students.  I believe all children should feel seen, loved, and appreciated.  It is my job to not only increase achievement, but leave students feeling confident, motivated, and self-assured. 

Mrs. Ott