Vanessa Jirik
Education Specialist (EdS)
Certifications Include:
Principalship/Administration
School Counseling
Social Studies
English
Visual Art
Graphic Design
ESL Endorsement
Enrolled in GT Endorsement Program
Phone:
270-350-6254
Email:
A Short Presentation
I am a diversified leader and teacher, currently working in a classroom position within Fayette County Public Schools. For the last twelve years, I have primarily taught Visual Art, Graphic Design, Film/Animation, and Photography courses, but I also have certifications in English, social studies, and school counseling. Due to my diversified background, I have worked with students on group therapy, SEL development, taught multiple AP level courses, organized and mentored Governor's Scholars and School for the Arts applicants, and served in various coaching and extra-curricular sponsor positions. I was also fortunate enough to be recognized as "Teacher of the Year" in 2023.
I am a focused, creative person, and I have a passion for education. Raised in western Kentucky, I learned how to work hard, make art, and love what I do. I always try to seek new solutions to routine procedures. I am a hands-on individual, and I cannot imagine a career that does not involve working with students.
Experience
August 2017 - Present
August 2013 - May 2017
Summer 2013
January 2012 - May 2013
August 2007 - May 2011
Lafayette High School | Lexington, Kentucky
Visual Art/Multimedia & Design Teacher. Instruct studio, illustration, graphic design, and photography courses for grades 9-12.
Paris Independent Middle & High Schools | Paris, Kentucky
Visual Art/Arts and Humanities Teacher. Instructed studio and history courses for grades 6-12.
Living Arts & Science Center | Lexington, Kentucky
Course Teacher. Instructor of graphic design and digital arts for the LASC summer programs.
University of Kentucky, College of Education | Lexington, Kentucky
Student Graphic Designer. Assisted with the rebranding of the college online and in print.
The Buntin Group | Nashville, Tennessee
Graphic Designer. Created various web and print media for regional and national franchises.
Education
August 2024 - May 2025
August 2023 - May 2024
August 2018 - May 2021
August 2016 - May 2018
August 2015 - May 2016
January 2012 - May 2013
August 2007 - May 2011
Eastern Kentucky University, Graduate Program
ESL (English Second Language) Endorsement
University of Kentucky, College of Education, Graduate Program
Education Specialist (EdS) in Principal Preparation
University of the Cumberlands, Graduate Program
Master of Arts in Education | School Counseling
Western Kentucky University, Graduate Program
GT (Gifted & Talented) Endorsement
University of the Cumberlands, Graduate Studies
Certification in Social Studies (Grades 8-12)
Certification in English (Grades 8-12)
University of Kentucky, Undergraduate Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Art Education
Watkins College of Art, Design & Film at Belmont University
Bachelor of Fine Arts | Graphic Design
Leadership Experience
2022-Present - Deeper Learning Coach for FCPS
2022- 2023 - FCPS Aspiring Leaders Program
2020-Present - Lafayette High School Equity Team
2018-2021 - Next Generation Leadership Academy
• Affiliated with the University of Kentucky and FCPS
2017-Present - Lafayette PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Committee Member
2019-2020 - FAC (Faculty Advisory Council)
• Elected position for faculty representation amongst school administration
2018-Present - PLC (Professional Learning Committee) Chair for Art I
2017-Present - LHS Technology Committee Member
2015-2017 - SBDM (Site-based Decision Making) Council
Professional Memberships
Prichard Committee Equity Coalition
NAEA (National Art Education Association) Member
KAEA (Kentucky Art Education Association)
KAPE (Kentucky Association of Professional Educators) Member
Next Generation Leadership Academy
ASCA (American School Counselor Association)
ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)
Lafayette PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association)
Kappa Delta Pi - International Honor Society in Education
My Specialties
I am adamant about providing an education structured around deeper learning and democratic processes. I have worked for many years to increase student input and equity in our schools with the goal of creating not only more engagement, but a truly enriching education for every single student. I have concentrated on student voice and implementing those stakeholders into the school’s democratic processes, in working with our community and families to develop more rewarding experiences, and in the planning and implementation of a myriad of PBL projects and events. I would love to speak with you further about my ideas for how to grow these areas even more within your school.
I can also offer new and innovative approaches to traditional art settings. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience within the art field – including within the technology and engineering branches. As mentioned earlier, I also hold a degree in graphic design and thrive on changing technology. This experience has given me a masterful eye in art and procedures, as well as enriched my skill in teaching. As an educator, I hope to put these skills toward on-going collaborative and cross-curricular projects throughout the school. My diversified certification set has allowed me to easily build PBL projects that blur the lines between technology, social studies, engineering, English, art and science.
Once again, for a copy of my full résumé, please download it here.
Let's Stay In Touch
I would love to speak with you further!
Please feel free to contact me via email at vanessa.jirik@fayette.kyschools.us
Full references are available upon request.