Island School Welcomes Valerie Cotton as New Art Teacher

The Island School on Gasparilla Island has officially welcomed Valerie Cotton as its new art teacher for the 2023-2024 academic year. This marks a significant milestone for Cotton, who previously volunteered at the school and is now stepping into a full-time role after a rewarding 24-year teaching career at Vineland Elementary.

Cotton’s journey into education began after her own challenges with strict schooling. She attended a Catholic school where art was not part of the curriculum. Reflecting on her experience, she stated, “I was really timid and shy… I always thought, ‘When I grow up, I’m going to be a nice teacher.’” Her passion for teaching was ignited when she encountered a kind art teacher in high school, which inspired her to create a nurturing environment for her students.

From Volunteer to Full-Time Educator

Having volunteered at The Island School once a week last year, Cotton had the opportunity to acclimate to the school’s environment. “Last year, I was here once a week, and so really, I was the art teacher,” she explained. “It was like a perfect intro into doing it.” Now, with a small class size of about ten students, Cotton is eager to make a significant impact. She believes that the intimate setting allows for personalized attention, stating, “If somebody needs a little help, you can get right to it and instantly nip it in the bud.”

Cotton’s educational background includes a degree in fine arts illustration from the Ringling College of Art and Design. Originally from Long Island, she moved to Florida with her family in 1981 at the age of 19. “It was really my parents’ dream to come to Florida,” she shared, recalling the family’s move as a momentous occasion.

Artistic Collaborations and Community Engagement

Throughout her career, Cotton has not only taught art but also led various outreach programs, including those focused on community service and environmental awareness. At Vineland, she was actively involved in initiatives like Helping Hands and the Homeless Coalition. Now at The Island School, she plans to integrate outdoor experiences into her curriculum, with a particular focus on local ecosystems. “I really feel like [the students] should know about their environment,” she remarked, noting her upcoming trip to the Everglades to engage students with nature.

Cotton’s artistic endeavors extend beyond the classroom. She collaborates with her husband, a skilled welder and mechanic, to create unique art pieces. “He can make anything out of steel,” she said, highlighting their joint projects as a blend of their talents. Their work has attracted attention, combining her designs with his welding skills to create striking artwork.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Cotton finds joy in her family life. She has three adult sons, James, Billy, and Colton, as well as a granddaughter named Adeline. Her sons have embraced maritime careers, with Billy living in the Florida Keys as a mechanic for motorboats and her oldest son working as a captain in the Caribbean.

As The Island School embarks on a new academic year, Cotton’s enthusiasm is palpable. She looks forward to fostering creativity and an appreciation for the environment among her students, blending her passion for art with her commitment to community engagement. With her extensive experience and heartfelt dedication, Cotton is poised to make a lasting impact on the young artists in her care.