At the heart of Alief ISD’s thriving Fine Arts program stands Keri Reynolds, the high school Fine Arts department lead, whose dedication to students and innovative approach to teaching have left a lasting mark on the district. With a career spanning over a decade in Alief ISD, Reynolds’ journey to education began long before she entered the classroom.
“My academic background includes an undergraduate degree in design and graduate degrees in art education and curriculum and instruction,” Reynolds shared. “Before teaching full-time, I worked in the design industry and traveled producing shows for trade markets. But it was during my senior year in high school, when my art teacher encouraged me to teach art to children during the summer, that I discovered my passion for education. Each summer during college, I returned to teach elementary and middle school students through a community college program. Those experiences truly shaped the teacher I am today.”
Reynolds has taught at two high school campuses within Alief ISD and currently instructs a wide range of courses at Kerr High School, including Art I, Drawing, Painting, Digital Art and Media, Photography, Graphic Design, AP 2D Portfolio, and AP Studio Drawing for grades 9–12. She describes the most rewarding part of her work as watching students’ curiosity ignite and supporting their growth in both small victories and major achievements.
“Success can be as small as a student finishing an assignment they struggled with or as big as winning state and national competitions,” she said. “It also occurs when students collaborate to help each other and share their work beyond the classroom walls. Seeing students succeed is what I enjoy most about teaching.”
A typical day in Reynolds’s classroom is dynamic. She balances teaching multiple art courses, supporting students academically and emotionally, collaborating with administrators, and planning exhibitions and programs across the district. She emphasizes that fostering a positive learning environment is central to her approach.
“I strive to create a safe space centered on trust and respect,” Reynolds explained. “Students collaborate in groups, share their work, and build self-confidence. I also take time to learn about their interests and backgrounds, listen to their concerns, and involve them in their own learning.”
Reynolds continually seeks innovative teaching methods, incorporating technology and project-based learning to inspire students. One recent initiative, inspired by her role as a national ARTEFFECT Ambassador, encouraged students to create works of art honoring everyday heroes. Using resources from the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, students researched and created art that celebrated individuals making a positive impact, ultimately exhibiting their work at the Alief Neighborhood Center.
Even during challenging times, Reynolds’ commitment never wavered. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she adapted lessons for virtual learning, ensuring that students without access to supplies at home could still engage in hands-on art projects. Despite the obstacles, her students successfully passed AP Art exams, a testament to their perseverance and her innovative instruction.
Beyond academics, Reynolds emphasizes the importance of supporting students’ emotional well-being. She takes time to connect with students, understanding the challenges they face and demonstrating care and concern for their success. Motivating students, she believes, comes from showing genuine care and giving them choices in their learning, tailoring projects to their interests while ensuring mastery of core skills.
Parents and community partners also play a vital role. Reynolds highlights collaborative projects like Art That Moves People, in which students designed public artwork for METRO bus shelters, linking classroom learning to real-world impact.
As a lifelong learner, Reynolds continually hones her skills and shares her expertise. She presents at state and national conferences, serves as the Secondary Level Research Commissioner for the National Art Education Association, and co-edits the Texas Art Education Association’s TRENDS Journal. Through these roles, she stays current in the field and supports fellow educators across the country.
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring educators, Reynolds emphasizes the service-oriented nature of teaching: “If someone’s primary motivation is time off, they’re in for an awakening. Teaching requires dedicating your talent and knowledge to support students’ growth wholeheartedly.”
Her ultimate hope for students extends far beyond art skills. “Art teaches problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative communication. I hope students carry these real-world skills and lessons into their future experiences and careers.”
For Reynolds, being a teacher is both a privilege and a responsibility. She reflects, “I have witnessed students’ creative, personal, and academic growth, and I strive to provide equitable learning experiences that challenge and nurture their abilities. Teaching has shaped me into someone who values collaboration, innovation, and the power of education to transform lives.”
Keri Reynolds’ dedication, creativity, and leadership embody the spirit of Alief ISD’s Fine Arts department. Through her work, countless students have found their voices, explored their talents, and achieved success in the arts. Her unwavering commitment ensures that Alief ISD continues to nurture the next generation of artists, innovators, and leaders—one student at a time.