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Vanessa Jirik

Education Specialist (EdS)

Certifications Include:

Principalship/Administration

School Counseling

Social Studies

English

Visual Art

Graphic Design

ESL Endorsement

Enrolled in GT Endorsement Program

Phone:

270-350-6254

Email:

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Hello, my name is Vanessa Jirik ("Jeer-ick").

I'm passionate, determined, and talented. 


Now that we've got that out of the way, please allow me to introduce myself.
For a copy of my full résumé, please download it below. 

A Short Presentation

I am a diversified leader and teacher, currently working in a classroom position within Fayette County Public Schools. For the last twelve years, I have primarily taught Visual Art, Graphic Design, Film/Animation, and Photography courses, but I also have certifications in English, social studies, and school counseling. Due to my diversified background, I have worked with students on group therapy, SEL development, taught multiple AP level courses, organized and mentored Governor's Scholars and School for the Arts applicants, and served in various coaching and extra-curricular sponsor positions. I was also fortunate enough to be recognized as "Teacher of the Year" in 2023.

I am a focused, creative person, and I have a passion for education. Raised in western Kentucky, I learned how to work hard, make art, and love what I do. I always try to seek new solutions to routine procedures. I am a hands-on individual, and I cannot imagine a career that does not involve working with students. 

Experience

August 2017 - Present

August 2013 - May 2017

Summer 2013

January 2012 - May 2013

August 2007 - May 2011

Lafayette High School | Lexington, Kentucky

Visual Art/Multimedia & Design Teacher. Instruct studio, illustration, graphic design, and photography courses for grades 9-12.

Paris Independent Middle & High Schools | Paris, Kentucky

Visual Art/Arts and Humanities Teacher. Instructed studio and history courses for grades 6-12.

Living Arts & Science Center | Lexington, Kentucky

Course Teacher. Instructor of graphic design and digital arts for the LASC summer programs.

University of Kentucky, College of Education | Lexington, Kentucky

Student Graphic Designer. Assisted with the rebranding of the college online and in print. 

The Buntin Group | Nashville, Tennessee

Graphic Designer. Created various web and print media for regional and national franchises. 

Education

August 2024 - May 2025

August 2023 - May 2024

August 2018 - May 2021

August 2016 - May 2018

August 2015 - May 2016

January 2012 - May 2013

August 2007 - May 2011

Eastern Kentucky University, Graduate Program

ESL (English Second Language) Endorsement

University of Kentucky, College of Education, Graduate Program

Education Specialist (EdS) in Principal Preparation

University of the Cumberlands, Graduate Program

Master of Arts in Education | School Counseling

Western Kentucky University, Graduate Program

GT (Gifted & Talented) Endorsement

University of the Cumberlands, Graduate Studies

Certification in Social Studies (Grades 8-12)

Certification in English (Grades 8-12)

University of Kentucky, Undergraduate Studies

Bachelor of Arts in Art Education

Watkins College of Art, Design & Film at Belmont University

Bachelor of Fine Arts | Graphic Design

Leadership Experience

2022-Present - Deeper Learning Coach for FCPS

2022- 2023 - FCPS Aspiring Leaders Program

2020-Present -  Lafayette High School Equity Team

2018-2021 - Next Generation Leadership Academy

• Affiliated with the University of Kentucky and FCPS

2017-Present - Lafayette PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Committee Member

2019-2020 -  FAC (Faculty Advisory Council)

• Elected position for faculty representation amongst school administration

2018-Present - PLC (Professional Learning Committee) Chair for Art I

2017-Present - LHS Technology Committee Member

2015-2017 - SBDM (Site-based Decision Making) Council

Professional Memberships

Prichard Committee Equity Coalition

NAEA (National Art Education Association) Member

 

KAEA (Kentucky Art Education Association)

KAPE (Kentucky Association of Professional Educators) Member

Next Generation Leadership Academy

ASCA (American School Counselor Association)

ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)

Lafayette PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association)

Kappa Delta Pi - International Honor Society in Education

My Specialties

I am adamant about providing an education structured around deeper learning and democratic processes. I have worked for many years to increase student input and equity in our schools with the goal of creating not only more engagement, but a truly enriching education for every single student. I have concentrated on student voice and implementing those stakeholders into the school’s democratic processes, in working with our community and families to develop more rewarding experiences, and in the planning and implementation of a myriad of PBL projects and events. I would love to speak with you further about my ideas for how to grow these areas even more within your school. 

I can also offer new and innovative approaches to traditional art settings. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience within the art field – including within the technology and engineering branches. As mentioned earlier, I also hold a degree in graphic design and thrive on changing technology. This experience has given me a masterful eye in art and procedures, as well as enriched my skill in teaching. As an educator, I hope to put these skills toward on-going collaborative and cross-curricular projects throughout the school. My diversified certification set has allowed me to easily build PBL projects that blur the lines between technology, social studies, engineering, English, art and science.

Once again, for a copy of my full résumé, please download it here.

Let's Stay In Touch

I would love to speak with you further!

 

Please feel free to contact me via email at vanessa.jirik@fayette.kyschools.us

Full references are available upon request.

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