In the hallways of the school, one teacher stands out for her unique ability to spread creativity around the school.
Quan Duong, an art teacher and tennis coach, tries her hardest for students to branch out and be creative. “She always wanted students to learn something through their art,”sophomore Christian Stokes said.
Originally, Duong thought she was going to be a museum curator or a visual artist. “I discovered the joy of teaching later in my career,” Duong said.
Duong is not only a dedicated art teacher but also the coach of the high school tennis team. Her dual roles have made her a beloved figure among students and faculty alike, showcasing her versatility and commitment to student development both in the classroom and on the court.
Even though Duong enjoys her job now, she did not always want to be an art teacher and it actually shocked her when she became one. “Growing up, my dad always wanted me to be a math teacher and I did not want to teach at all, but eventually I ended up being a math teacher first, and eventually became an art teacher,” Duong said.
In the art classroom, Duong is known for her innovative teaching methods. She encourages students to explore different mediums and techniques, fostering a creative environment where students feel free to express themselves. Her favorite form of art to teach is painting because students can be creative and showcase their unique form of art through it. “I never had Duong as a teacher, but whenever I see her in the halls she is almost always smiling and always saying something nice to someone and I think that should pretty much describe her overall character,” sophomore Chelsea Opoku said.
Her lessons often incorporate elements of art history, providing a comprehensive understanding of artistic movements and their cultural significance. Students appreciate her approachable demeanor and the personalized feedback she offers, which helps them grow as artists. “Students don’t really anger me easily because everyone comes from different experiences, which could affect how they respond in class,” Duong said.
Balancing the two demanding roles of being an art teacher and tennis coach is no easy ask, but Duong manages it with grace and enthusiasm. She often draws parallels between art and tennis, highlighting the importance of focus, practice and perseverance in both fields. “I remember when I had Mrs. Duong during art she would talk about how she would coach tennis and I would just listen and hear her describe it with a lot of love and passion. You could tell she just really enjoyed what she was doing,” senior Isabella Hovian said.
Her dedication to her students’ success is evident in the countless hours she spends preparing lessons, organizing art exhibitions and coaching after school.
In a world where specialization is often emphasized, Duong’s many-sided approach to education serves as a reminder of the value of diverse skills and interests. Her story is a testament to the impact and help a dedicated teacher or coach can have on the lives of young people. “Overall I just love seeing students happy when they complete a piece they think they couldn’t do in the first place,” Duong said.
