To Whom It May Concern:
Abby DeLuca was a co-worker of mine from the fall of 2007 until the spring of 2010 at the Windward School in White Plains, New York. During our three years together, we built an excellent program. We had individual classrooms connected by a kiln room at one end and a storage room at the other end. On a day-to-day basis, we worked closely, developing interesting, thoughtful, creative projects for a student population with reading-based learning disabilities. Windward School follows a direct instruction, research-based model, even in its art program. An emphasis on language and breaking down lesson plans into manageable increments are features of Windward’s program. Abby helped to develop a curriculum that was broad as well as deep with special attention to the learning needs of our students. Lesson plans included drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and 3D building.
I taught at Windward for two years before Abby’s arrival. When she arrived, she brought great enthusiasm, energy and creativity to the school. I learned a great deal from Abby. She is responsible, professional, and has exceptional classroom management. She was well-loved by students as well as her colleagues. Abby is kind and funny, warm and loving. Above and beyond Abby’s pleasant personality, she is a fantastic teacher. Though she is a working artist, with an artistic life outside of teaching, it is her presence in the classroom that is her true calling. Abby is a gifted teacher. She is one of a kind. Not only can Abby draw and paint—her technical skills are excellent—but Abby inspires and instructs. She is extremely well-organized. Her classroom was always in excellent working order. Abby spent time preparing for her classes. Whether she was printmaking or building with clay, I could always hear her cutting paper or laying out materials for her classes during her prep periods. She always had the “aim” written on the board, materials ready, and models of whatever project she was teaching.
Abby and I collaborated on many projects. We shared ideas. If Abby had a wonderful project, she would describe it to me and help me adapt it to the grade level I was teaching. Invariably, Abby would find a way to improve all projects. In particular, Abby developed projects on Keith Haring (printmaking); negative and positive space using organic shapes; multicultural art of Oaxacan Mexico; interdisciplinary lessons on Greek vase design, to name a few. One year, we made ceramic snowmen with real branches for arms. Abby figured out that we should sharpen orange pencils and break off the points to use for the “carrot” noses.
Abby created a set design in perspective for the school play. She set up beautiful displays of student work throughout the school. Abby took a leadership role in the institution of an “Arts Week” at Windward. The show was a huge success.
I can not say enough about the positive impact Abby had on Windward. Everyone was very sad to learn she would not return. She needed a break from a very long commute to White Plains from New York City. The department has not been the same since she left. She is missed terribly.
I wholeheartedly recommend Abby DeLuca. As you can see, I am extremely fond of her and any school would be lucky to get her. She has an excellent character and is a fabulous art teacher.
Sincerely,
Susanne Leary Shoemaker
Art Department
40 West Red Oak Lane
White Plains, NY 10604
914 949-6968
