Adrienne Bickel – Northside Elementary

Adrienne Bickel is the 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year for Northside Elementary School. Bickel was born and raised in Michigan. She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Michigan, and then later earned her master’s degree in arts education at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Bickel then applied to her first teaching job, which was at Northside Elementary, as the art teacher, and has been there ever since. This marks her seventh year in teaching.

Why teaching/What brought you into this field?

“My mom was a teacher – she definitely is my inspiration. I’ve always had a love for working with children and my passion is art, so I was lucky to be in the program at SCAD and put the two together.”

Any inspiration from past teachers?

“I had amazing teachers all throughout grade school. I was also really fortunate to have great art classes in high school to which we were exposed to all areas of art, painting, photography, etc. There isn’t one teacher in particular, but again, all of my teachers were great.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

“Everyday is different. I have never had one day where it felt like the days before. Being a fine arts teacher, I get to know all the students. Seeing them all, hearing their stories, hugs, and tears is amazing. I don’t think I could ever have had an office job because teaching is a new adventure every day, and I really enjoy that.”

What is the most challenging part of teaching?

“Others who have not been in the classroom in a while trying to make the best decisions for us. It can be a little frustrating. We are lucky here in Houston County, where the school system has an appreciation for the fine arts. Most of my friends in other areas have been cut due to budget restraints.”

Advice to students

“All areas in life are going to be hard. You just have to persevere and get to the finish line. While it can be frustrating, just remember, tomorrow is a new day with a fresh beginning.”

Advice to parents

“Be supportive of your child if they are interested in art. There are many career opportunities aside from teaching. If they have the talent, trust and support them.”