About the Author

Leah Padlo

Hi there! I’m Leah Padlo, a high school art teacher based in Monticello, Indiana, with a passion for photography, watercolor painting, and throwing on the pottery wheel. I studied art education at Indiana University and have been teaching since 2015. In my classroom, I focus on building strong relationships with my students by guiding them through their creative processes. I believe that these connections not only enhance their artmaking but also help them grow personally.

When I’m not teaching, you’ll often find me outdoors, soaking up the sun, or traveling to new places. I love spending time with my friends and family, and I’m always on the lookout for local coffee shops to try. I’m constantly inspired by the world around me, and I enjoy finding new ways to blend my passions for art and life.

I am excited to share my knowledge and passions with you through The Art of Education University.

Posts by Leah

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"what if" prompt cards
Article

Curiosity Over Comfort: Designing Art Exercises That Challenge and Inspire

Remember that glorious feeling when a student makes a creative breakthrough? It’s that “aha!” moment, that electric spark of innovation,...
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sketch and final artwork
Article

Get Curious: How to Learn From Your Advanced Students in the Art Room

In the art room, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we need to be the most talented,...
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excitement in block letters with doodles around it
Article

How Doodling Unlocks Literacy: Art Room Strategies That Really Work

When we think about literacy, the first images that come to mind are often bookshelves, novels, essays, and students huddled...
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emoji rubric with a pen and artwork
Article

How to Write Rubrics for Students Who Can’t Read English in the Art Room

Education is full of acronyms—from ELL (English Language Learner) to ESL (English as a Second Language) to MLL (Multilingual Learner)....
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student artwork with sketches and planning
Article

AP and IB Art Teachers: How to Build Support and Teach with Confidence

Teaching advanced art classes is not your average elective. Often college-level, these courses demand a unique blend of conceptual thinking,...
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rainbow spinner with caddies of brushes and pencils
Article

Grow Connection in the Art Room Through Student Voice, Choice, and Belonging

The art room has the power to be the most magical, welcoming, and joyfully rebellious space in the school. It’s...
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tape zones for drawing supplies
Article

10 Clever Ways to Organize Your Art Supplies (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let’s face it, an art room without a solid art supply organization system is just a beautiful mess waiting to...
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hot glue sticks on an art room table
Article

Melting the Rules: 8 Hot Glue Hacks That Will Rock Art Teachers’ Minds

Hot glue is no longer just for googly eyes and emergency fixes. It’s a versatile powerhouse in the modern art...
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bubble in front of trees
Article

Brighten Your Classroom: 6 Summer Art Projects for Year-Round Sunshine

There’s something about the sun that makes anything feel possible. Maybe it’s the warmth, maybe it’s the golden light, or...
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iron and other fabric art supplies
Article

Sizzling Supplies: Heat Up the Art Room with These 8 Hot Must-Try Tools

Art education thrives on innovation, experimentation, and engagement. While foundational materials like paint, paper, and clay are timeless, introducing fresh...
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art dice prompts with supplies and a sketchbook
Article

Jumpstart Your Creativity: 5 Easy Mini Art Practices for Art Teachers to Try This Summer

During the school year, art teachers dedicate their time and energy to nurturing students’ creativity. In the midst of this...
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woman looking at wall of art
Article

4 Steps to Creating Your Dream Art Museum Tour This Summer

Summer is a golden opportunity for art educators to refresh, refocus, and reignite their creativity. What better way to blend...
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