Email: jgfaison@aol.com

Professional Experience: I worked as a Graphic Designer for 10 years before returning to school to earn my teaching credential, after which I taught 1st grade for four years. I then taught graphic design and 3D art at the secondary level for seven years. Have taught professional development courses for many years.

Personal Experience: Art has always played a significant role in my life - I continue to enjoy making, sharing, and studying art.

Scholarly Interests: Particularly interested in the connection between art and language arts; especially as they relate to beginning readers and writers.

Recommended Reading: Personally, enjoy many books and magazines. Professionally, some favorites are: The First Days of School by Wong; Moon Journals, Chancer and Rester-Zodrow; A Teacher's Sketch Journal by Ernst. I'm planning to read next Why Our Schools Need the Arts, Hoffmann Davis, and The Impact of Early Art Experiences on Literacy Development, by Danko-McGhee and Slutsky.

Favorite Music: All music from classical to rap, from Johhn Mathis to heavy metal. Still developing my taste for country western!

Favorite Activities: Reading, scrapbooking, "playing" in my studio at home, exercising, going to the movies, baking, and OF COURSE spending time with family and friends!

Family Info: Married since 2005; three step children, ages 21, 19 and 14. Mother and sister; father passed away in 2005.

Favorite Bible Verse: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

What Matters: Love

Pet Peeves: People that don't use turn signals!

Web/Blog URL: www.artforelementaryteachers.com

Subject Expertise: Visual art and graphic design

Education: BA Advertising Design - CSUFresno; MA Curriculum and Teaching - Fresno Pacific University

Home town: Born in Fresno, CA; live in Visalia, CA

What I Like About FPU: Their impeccable reputation as a place of academic excellence, as well as a place where individual attention is given to each student. I also appreciate the fact that FPU is founded on and guided by Christian principles.

Significant Influence: My father, Ralph Gomas has had a profound influence on my life and career choice as an art educator. An art teacher throughout his entire career, my dad provided me with an excellent example to study as I make my own way in this field.