Blog: NAEA Conference Chicago

March 4-7, 2026

I had such a great time at the National Art Educators Association Conference in Chicago this spring!

It was an honor to attend with Weber State University, and I learned so much.

Waterlilies by Claude Monet, my favorite painting!

The Weber State Crew

Highlights from the Conference:

Boys in Art: Healthy Masculinity

In this session, we broke down some stereotypes about adolescent and teen boys in the art classroom and discussed how to encourage them to use their energy to learn and grow. I learned that many who act like they don't care, really do. They may be scared to practice vulnerabilty for fear it may make them enemies and cost them friends. It is my job to show them the skills, tools, and confidence to express themselves. A helpful approach may be ask them to "Show me what you don't show the world." Main takeaway: My classroom might be the safest one they are in all day.

Designing Art Lessons for children in Hospital Schools

In this session, we learned about how to assist children in hospital school settings in the process of art-making. I learned it is vital to have these students participate in preparation and clean-up procedures, and how beneficial it is to co-create tactile projects with students. Main takeaway: Recognize these youth as desiring learners who are capable.

Wisdom for Preservice Teachers

In this session, I took away some practical tips as I begin my journey into art teaching. I learned it is important to discuss budget with administration early and often, advocate for the arts in your school and in your district, display art history and art standards (as well as core standards) along with students artwork, and to do a self-identity project early in the year! Main takeaway: You are the art advocate for the school!

The highlight of the trip was seeing so many famous pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago!

I am so glad I was able to attend this year's conference, and I look forward to attending in the future!

My husband, Jared and I.