Mia Levi
Gina Maisonet wasn’t always an art teacher. Her career began as a shoe designer in New York City. But her love art and her hometown was always present, and soon she answered the call.
“My dream job was to become a fashion designer, and I achieved that goal. However, in life, sometimes things change and priorities change and I am currently at my dream job which is teaching art,” Maisonet said. “We have nothing but really great times in my classroom and love the experiences I have with my students. I would say that this is my dream job.”
Maisonet’s first foray into education was teaching fashion design and digital design to middle school and high school students. She wanted to instill in students the same passion she had when she first learned how to draw.
“I’ve been drawing all my life,” Maisonet said. “I think from the time I learned to hold my pencil, I was drawing. I chose the career path that I was initially going for with fashion design because I had no idea what else I could possibly do with what I love doing– I just wanted to draw. I didn’t know what I could do with it but I just wanted to draw all day.”
Maisonet strives to create a judgement-free zone in her classroom. A welcoming art space is one of her main priorities. Creating bonds with her students is one of the many ways she feels is important to make sure everyone feels comfortable.
“I love that she is able to translate her background into her teaching, she uses her past to create new ideas for every class,” eighth grade Advanced Art student Liv Gabay said.
Knowing how much her students care and feel inspired by her background is what makes her make everyone have a good time at her class. Maisonet feels like she found a true home in Gulliver to continue her art journey.
“I truly feel like I’m creating connections with my students, and I’m super happy to be here,” Maisonet said.