from Sherrard Elementary School — Sherrard, Illinois

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Biography

As a child, I was the kid in class who was always drawing. I could draw cars, battleships, and all things Star Trek. My teachers took much of this artwork from me since I was really supposed to be doing my math or reading. I filled my teachers' desks with pictures and paper props.

In high school I directed my talents in the visual arts and industrial arts. I have always enjoyed working with my hands; designing and making things. I focused mainly on ceramics and woodworking. I also enjoyed playing guitar and football and thought I could go to college and continue both. Later, I came to the realization that I was a better artist and guitar player than a football player. I graduated from Teikyo Marycrest University in Davenport, Iowa with a BA in Computer Graphics. While in college I also discovered art education and spent two semesters as a student teacher in art. I discovered that I really enjoyed being in the art classroom helping students.

Shortly after graduation, I started a career in Information Technology as a network administrator. After years of working in this field I decided it was time to get back in the art classroom as a teacher. I worked as a paraeducator for Davenport Schools in Iowa prior to attending Western Illinois University to earn my teaching licensure in K-12 Art Education. I returned to Davenport Schools for a year as a guest teacher before coming to Sherrard Schools.

My wife and I have four children; three that still live at home. We are also foster parents and have new children in our home from time to time. We are "summer people" and enjoy spending the warm months by our swimming pool. In my leisure time I am also fishing or playing guitar in a rock band.

The fine arts teach our students an alternative way to communicate, strengthen problem solving skills, and promotes creative thinking. Each day I am grateful for the opportunity to work in an environment that promotes these life skills. In addition, it is my privilege to share my art knowledge and skills with the most appreciative customers I have ever worked for: your children! Their creativity, effort, and respect are a reflection of you and I thank you.

Tony Vermeer
Elementary Art Education
Sherrard CUSD 200

Personal Art Gallery