Edge High School is a tuition-free alternative charter school that offers individualized instruction with small class sizes. Each week you’ll study traditional high school topics like math, science, and social studies. But on Wednesdays, we take a break from that schedule and offer a variety of elective classes – from yoga and PE to life skills and student government. Do you have a creative spirit? Then sign up for a Wednesday art class! Our ELA teaching assistant and art teacher Bonnie Craig welcomes all makers with a variety of mediums to inspire beginners to advanced abilities. To get to know her better, we asked Bonnie some questions about herself – and learned that she’s passionate about Edge students, justice and equity, and Bigfoot?!
When did you know you wanted to be an educator?
I actually never planned on becoming an educator. It just kind of happened. Although I had taught various art and sustainability classes and workshops over the years, I had always worked labor jobs to support myself. When those became virtually impossible to find during the last recession, especially for a woman in very male-dominated trades, I decided to try out college. I ended up taking a class on tutoring, subsequently got a job doing that at the community college (which I still have after over 10 years), and thus began my education career.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
I had a few really good teachers, but my very favorite was probably my first grade teacher, who we called Nina, because the name Ms. Nott was not ideal when pronounced quickly in an elementary school setting. She was incredibly warm and creative. She played rock and roll on an old piano she kept in the classroom, and taught us the words to sing along. She always listened to us and treated us with the same respect she gave adults.
How does Edge’s mission and vision align with your personal values?
As long as I can remember, I have lived my life feeling deeply committed to justice, equity, and inclusivity. The first day I set foot in the building for my job interview, and learned of Edge’s mission and vision, it was clear that I had landed in the right place.
What do you love most about your role?
I play a variety of roles at Edge, but one thing they have in common is the opportunity to work one-on-one with students and really get to know them. I find this so incredibly valuable, as it not only helps support social emotional learning, but gives us as educators the tools to individualize our approach to teaching.
Tell us about Edge art classes
So far we have concentrated specifically on acrylic painting, although I encourage students to experiment with any and all mediums and styles. Ultimately, the goal is effort and creative output, regardless of how, specifically, that ends up looking. I hope to curate a gallery wall of student work at the end of this quarter.
What else would you like us to know about YOU?
I am a major disciple of the natural world. While not at work, most of my attention and love are focused on plants and animals of all shapes and sizes, especially my three ridiculously brilliant and adorable dogs. I also really want Bigfoot to be real.
Edge tuition-free charter high school puts you in charge of your own learning – from traditional high school subjects to Wednesday elective art classes. Find out more and enroll today!
About Edge
EDGE is a Cognia accredited, tuition-free, charter high school, with two campuses in the greater Tucson area. We provide an alternative to traditional education, meeting the diverse learning and life needs of our students with our blended curriculum and flexible morning or afternoon class schedules. Our high-quality, passionate teachers are dedicated to individualized instruction in our small academic classes. Be you. With us. At Edge.