The Island School welcomed a new academic year on July 31, 2023, marking the beginning of Valerie Cotton’s tenure as the on-island art teacher. After a year of volunteering at the school, Cotton has stepped into a full-time role that allows her to cultivate creativity among students.
Previously, Cotton volunteered weekly, working alongside the physical education teacher to engage with students. “Last year, I was here once a week, and so really, I was the art teacher,” she stated. “It was like a perfect intro into doing it.” Her passion for teaching and art is deeply rooted in her own experiences, which have shaped her approach in the classroom.
A Journey to Art Education
Born and raised on Long Island, Cotton moved to Florida in 1981, driven by her family’s dream to relocate. She pursued her studies in fine arts illustration at the Ringling College of Art and Design, where she honed her skills. “I always wanted to illustrate books,” she shared, reflecting on her aspirations during her college years. Although she created a few small projects, she did not initially find success with major companies.
Cotton’s desire to teach was influenced by her own educational journey, particularly her experiences in a strict Catholic school. “I was really timid and shy,” she recalled. “I always thought, ‘When I grow up, I’m going to be a nice teacher.’” This desire was ignited further during high school when she met an inspiring art teacher who introduced her to the world of creativity.
Before joining The Island School, Cotton taught art to kindergarten through fifth graders at Vineland Elementary in Rotonda West for 24 years. “I retired from Vineland thinking that I was never going to work in a school again,” she admitted. However, upon hearing about the opportunity at The Island School from colleague Tonya Huber, she decided to volunteer for a year, eventually leading to her current position.
Connecting with Nature and Creativity
During her time at Vineland, Cotton also led outdoor programs, including kayaking, and has plans to incorporate similar activities into her curriculum at The Island School. “I have always had side gigs,” she explained, noting her affinity for kayaking. “I can still do my kayaking tours, and then I can also do my paint nights and sell my artwork.”
Cotton collaborates with her husband, who is a welder and mechanic, to create unique metal art pieces. “He can make anything out of steel,” she said. “We’re really painting with fire,” she added, highlighting the creative process they share. Their son, Colton, also participates in their art projects, contributing to the family’s artistic endeavors.
As a mother of three adult sons—James, Billy, and Colton—Cotton is also celebrating the arrival of her first grandchild, a girl named Adeline. Her sons have diverse careers, with one working as a mechanic in the Keys and another as a captain who spends months in the Caribbean.
Back at The Island School, Cotton launched the school year with flamingo-themed arts and crafts, eagerly anticipating the benefits of small class sizes. “I can definitely get so much more accomplished,” she said, emphasizing the personal attention she can provide to each student. With a class size of around ten, she feels it resembles a family environment, allowing her to address individual needs effectively.
In addition to art, Cotton is enthusiastic about incorporating nature into her lessons. “I would love to do outreach,” she stated, expressing her commitment to environmental education. She plans to introduce students to the local ecosystem, beginning with a walk in the Everglades. “These kids really should know where they live,” she remarked, highlighting her belief in the importance of connecting students with their surroundings.
Valerie Cotton’s journey from a timid student to an inspiring educator illustrates the profound impact that positive experiences can have on teaching. Her dedication to art, nature, and her students promises to create a vibrant learning atmosphere at The Island School.