Room 118 at Foran High School is more than simply a place to paint and sculpt, it’s also a place of connection, creativity, and inspiration. Mrs. Deanna Dotson creates a classroom environment in which young artists feel appreciated, respected, and encouraged to express themselves freely through their art.
Dotson’s student Avery Izzo states, “Mrs. Dotson is very caring about her students and is always a listening ear for all.”
Dotson is also recognized for her close connections with her students. Her love of creation does not end at school. Outside of Foran, she lives a full and lively life, immersed in artistic interests, herbalism, and hands-on crafting. She embodies the concept that art is more than just something you teach; it is something you live.
Her favorite type of art is impressionism. Impressionism is an art movement that focuses on capturing fleeting moments, light, and color, often with loose brushstrokes and an emphasis on the effects of natural light. It was the first art style she fell in love with.
Dotson says, “Impressionism changed the art world at the time; they were rebels!”
Dotson’s career began at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), which is very well known for its program in teaching. Dotson felt well prepared for her first teaching position, which took place at Jonathan Law, having completed 40 hours of classroom observation at Foran and 16 hours of student teaching at both Foran and a school in Derby. However, doubts regarding her professional direction persisted. A few uninspired teachers at SCSU made her wonder if teaching was the perfect match, prompting her to take a break, work in other industries, and even alter her major to Pharmacy.
Life, however, had different intentions. Marriage and parenthood changed her viewpoint and reignited her enthusiasm for teaching. She returned with a fresh feeling of purpose, so as of now, in her 23 years, she finds the greatest satisfaction.
Dotson says, “My favorite part of teaching is getting to know my students and having a good rapport with them.”
Dotson is a certified herbalist with a broad understanding of plant-based healing and natural medicine. She also has certificates in crystal healing, which allows her to work with crystal energy characteristics to promote balance and health, as well as floral essence therapy, which uses the vibrational properties of flowers to promote healing spiritually and emotionally.
Dotson has a deep love for creativity in many forms. In her free time, she finds joy in both practical and artistic crafts. Her artistic hobbies include painting, stained glass, jewelry making, and needle felting, allowing her to explore different textures, colors, and techniques.
Dotson says, “I also have other creative hobbies such as cooking, gardening, making soaps and remedies, and beauty products like face creams.”
She makes tinctures, which is a medicine made by dissolving things into teas or infusions. She also makes slaves, syrups, and even cough drops.
Mrs. Dotson’s passion for art, teaching, and holistic healing makes her an inspiring presence both inside and outside the classroom. Through her creativity, care for students, and dedication to lifelong learning, she continues to make a lasting impact on those around her.
