Hannah Spitzer

Mateo

 

The art room is a place where there is one thread that binds us all together—the language of creativity. Mateo is an artist. He draws rockets, practices his coloring and tells very silly stories. Starting at a new school has its own complications, but imagine a school, where the only person that speaks your language is you. Ms. Hannah knows Mateo is an artist. She loves the way he tells stories through his pictures without using words. It makes her sad to see his frustrations, but how can she help break this language barrier that feels too heavy to handle alone?

​

This book is written as an example for educators and students alike. Studying art education has shown me the inherent need for us as humans to feel included and heard. Teaching English Language Learners in the Cincinnati area and witnessing the everyday challenges in understanding one another, has made me see the impact and the importance of creating more inclusive learning environments for all.

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

​

​