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Spotlight on Creativity: LeeVan Roundtree, Art Teacher Extraordinaire

At the heart of our school’s flourishing art program is LeeVan Roundtree, an inspiring force shaping the creative minds of students in grades 9 through 12. With a deep passion for education and a commitment to fostering self-expression, Mr. Roundtree brings a unique perspective to the classroom that resonates deeply with his students and the community.

Inspiring Young Minds Through Art

Mr. Roundtree’s journey as an educator began with a vision: to represent children like himself and to show them they can make a difference. After teaching in Atlanta, he brought his passion for the arts to our school, where he encourages students to embrace their individuality. Every class begins with his students reciting, “You are Elite,” a mantra of self-empowerment and greatness.

“These kids are given an amazing opportunity to learn in such a beautiful space, but I also want them to respect the opportunity ,” he explains. “All the teachers care about their students here and that is something you won’t find anywhere else.”

A Creative Path

With a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion and Design and ongoing studies toward a Master’s in Psychology at UW-Milwaukee, Mr. Roundtree blends art and human understanding seamlessly. His personal favorites—fashion design and painting with acrylics on canvas—inform his teaching style, making art relatable and exciting. He fosters a safe and encouraging environment where students are free to explore their imaginations and express themselves without fear of judgment. “Art isn’t about making things look like what they are,” he says. “Art is more.”

Building a Legacy

Mr. Roundtree’s vision for the art program is ambitious and transformative. He aims to develop a fine arts discipline that includes photography, painting, sculpting, and fashion. By bringing in community specialists and accessing local resources, he hopes to create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

However, the program faces challenges, from limited access to art materials to the need for equipment like a kiln and more storage and display solutions. “We use lots of materials,” he notes, emphasizing the importance of a steady stream of resources.

Your Support Matters

When asked about the impact of donor support, Mr. Roundtree’s gratitude shines through. “No artist tolerates reality,” he says, quoting Friedrich Nietzsche. “Your support allows us to transcend the ordinary and unlock the extraordinary potential of our students.”

From fostering self-love and imagination to helping students see themselves in future careers, Mr. Roundtree’s impact is profound.

With your continued support, we can help Mr. Roundtree turn his vision into reality and ensure that every student has the tools and opportunities to explore the transformative power of art. Together, we can shape a future filled with creativity, self-expression, and limitless possibilities.

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