In the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon, one high school teacher is redefining what a classroom can be. Maria Jenkins, an art teacher at Portland High School, has spent the last several years turning her classroom into a creative incubator where students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and express themselves in ways that go beyond the traditional.
With a blend of paintbrushes, robotics kits, 3D printers, and even virtual reality headsets, Jenkins has built an environment where art and technology collide. Her approach focuses not only on traditional artistic skills but also on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary creativity. Jenkins believes that art isn’t just about creating pretty pictures—it’s about learning to think outside the box and tackle challenges in new ways.
“I want my students to see that creativity doesn’t have to fit into one box,” Jenkins explains. “Whether they’re designing a video game, building a robot, or painting a mural, the process of creating is the same—it’s about experimenting, taking risks, and figuring out how to bring your ideas to life.”
The impact has been profound. This year alone, several of Jenkins’ students have won top awards in regional art and technology competitions. Alex Collins, a senior, combined his interests in animation and engineering to create a robot that could draw, which became the centerpiece of the school’s annual science fair. Jessica Lee, a junior, used 3D modeling software to design interactive sculptures, which were displayed at a local Portland gallery.
Jenkins’ students aren’t just learning how to make art—they’re learning how to merge technology with creativity, opening doors to careers in digital media, game development, engineering, and more.
“I never thought I’d be able to do something like this,” says Alex. “But Ms. Jenkins showed me how to combine my passions and make them real. She really believed in me, and that made all the difference.”
Jenkins is also committed to connecting her students with the larger Portland creative community. Through partnerships with local artists, tech professionals, and innovators, she provides her students with real-world mentorship and opportunities to network and gain hands-on experience.
Parents are raving about Jenkins’ ability to cultivate both technical skills and a sense of confidence in their children. “She doesn’t just teach art; she teaches my daughter how to think, how to problem-solve, and how to believe in her own potential,” one parent said.
As the year continues, Jenkins remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of education, creating a space where students are empowered to dream big, take risks, and discover what they are truly capable of.
Why this story matters:
Maria Jenkins’ creative classroom in Portland is a reminder that education doesn’t have to be limited by traditional methods. By blending art with technology and empowering students to explore their passions, Jenkins is shaping the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and creators.
