Claire Popovich, also known as “Pops”, has proudly taught art at Chelsea High School since 2018. Instructing Ceramics, Draw, Paint, Print, and Studio Art at the high school, and also teaching a section of eighth grade at Beach Middle School this year, let’s discover about her and what happens in her class.
“This feels like a dream job. Amazing administration, amazing kiddos. A lot of creative freedom in the content we get to teach you guys. And it's just really fun. I really enjoy it,” Popovich said.
When she talks about her job, Popovich is smiling. Her enthusiasm for teaching comes through in everything she does, and it’s clear that she finds deep joy in her work.
“I mainly love the ceramics program, because the class is very free, and you kind of do what you want as long as you do the project. It's very fun to express yourself,” Brooke Paddock (‘27) said
That sense of freedom is exactly what Popovich hopes her students will experience. Her work shows her dedication to helping students of all ages grow as artists.
“The reason I like teaching high school so much is that we get to explore a lot more conceptual themes of art, symbology, and personal expression. I get to see your artistic voice come out while you're creating at the high school level. And it's cool seeing you guys turning into young adults,” Popovich said.
Popovich especially enjoys teaching high school because of the creative growth she gets to witness. Indeed, the class is filled with students from freshmen to seniors who all work on the same projects, and every person can express their creativity in their own way.
“I always play music,” Popovich said. “I want it to be a brain break for you in the day. Many of you pursue rigorous academic studies, and we learn valuable skills that we can apply. But I want you to have a really nice time as you're doing it.”
Art classes offer a different way of learning in the day. Background music and the freedom to express yourself in the project might increase readiness for the rest of the school day. Art is recognized for its significant benefits, including stress reduction, improved mental health, and boosted creativity. Having this time in the day is a chance to discover new skills or passions.
“I really discovered [drawing and painting] thanks to her,” Paddock said. “I wasn't originally planning on taking the class, but I ended up actually really liking it, and it's really nice to get to express myself through art.”
Practicing art in class can be a revelation. All the material available, and the freedom to do their own piece of art, offer students a moment to be proud of themselves with less pressure than might be expected from other classes.
“Outside of teaching, I do a lot of crafting,” Popovich said. “I love hiking, going out in the woods. I like to read, and I like being creative. So even when I'm not teaching art, I like doing art at home.”
Always interested in sharing her interests, Popovich frequently interacts with art outside of her classes. Her approach to being a teacher is driven by a passion to share and instruct. Her classroom is known for its relaxed and positive energy, a place filled with music, laughter, and creativity.
“I hope it's chill, I hope it's fun and calm and just a good, safe space in your day to come create,” Popovich said. “That's the dream.”
