Teaching Artist Resource Hub
Teaching Artists are at the heart of Path with Art. You create the spaces where creativity, dignity, and community come alive. This hub gathers the tools, resources, and guidance commonly used by Teaching Artists at PwA. Whether you are preparing for a class or workshop, or exploring deeper engagement in our community, this page is meant to make what you need easy to find. If something is missing or could be improved, please let us know — we will continue to evolve this with the wisdom of our Teaching Artist community.
“Path with Art has created a safe, inclusive haven allowing for creativity, growth, and expansion to replace the sense of hypervigilance and isolation many of us struggle with. A place where uniqueness is celebrated and we can be our authentic selves.” –2025 Participant
2026 Program Dates
- Winter: February 2–March 27, registration opens early January
- Spring: May 4–June 26, registration opens end of March
- Summer: July 20–September 11, registration opens mid June
- Fall: October 12–December 4, registration opens mid September
Start Here
TA Handbook
A guide to Path with Art’s teaching philosophy, program structure, and expectations for Teaching Artists.
TA Syllabus Template
A simple template to help you structure and communicate your class plan to participants.
Studio Guidelines (for in-person classes at the artHOME)
Shared practices that help keep Path with Art studios welcoming, safe, and supportive for everyone.
>> See also the 2026 Pay Dates<<
What’s Coming Up?
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- May 4 – Quarter 2 Begins
- May 23 – PwA Band at NW Folklife Festival
- May 25 – PWA Singers at NW Folklife Festival
- May 28 – In-person TA + Volunteer Appreciation Event at Octopus Bar, 5–8pm
- Week of June 22 – Quarter 2 ends
Teaching Resources
Path with Art Resources
Best Practices for Online Teaching
Tips and strategies for facilitating engaging, accessible virtual classes.
ASL Online Interpretation Best Practices
Guidelines for working effectively with ASL interpreters in virtual classes.
Navigating Difficult Conversations
Some scripts you can use for making difficult conversations feel more manageable including NonViolent Communication, Empathy Problem-Solving, and more.
Further Reading & Learning
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- Setting Norms and Commitments | Stanford Teaching Commons for Online Teaching
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- Building Inclusive Community | Stanford Teaching Commons for Online Teaching
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- The First Day of Class | Cornell’s Center for Teaching Innovation
Media + Learning
Internal Recordings
Spring Orientation Recording + [Orientation Slides]
An overview of Path with Art expectations and best practices for Creative Mentors and Teaching Artists.
Healing Together at Path with Art — Lindsey’s Story
Lindsey shares how creativity, community, and belonging at Path with Art supported her healing journey.
Participant Artist, Michelle’s story | Interview & Poem
Michelle shares her journey through art, healing, and self-expression at Path with Art.
External Recommended Media
What is trauma? | Bessel van der Kolk
How trauma lives in the body and shapes how we experience the world.
Understanding Intergenerational Trauma
How trauma can pass across generations and affect families and communities.
Why Pronouns Are Important
A short video on many reasons why sharing and using people’s correct pronouns really matters in creating an inclusive environment.
For Calling the Spirit Back From Wandering the Earth in its Human Feet | Joy Harjo
A powerful poem inviting us to return to ourselves, our bodies, and the present moment.
Giving Artists With Disabilities a Space to Thrive
A short look at Creative Growth in Oakland, CA and how creative spaces can empower artists with disabilities and build inclusive communities.
Ballard Food Bank – a Hub for Hope
A look at how the Ballard Food Bank supports dignity, nourishment, and community connection.
Connect
Community Life
Interested in more opportunities to get engaged at Path with Art?
Signup Genius Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities
Optional ways for Teaching Artists to engage more deeply in the PwA community, including Access Art, workshops, and special events.
Arts and Ideas Reading Club
A monthly virtual and in-person space where staff and volunteers gather to explore art, ideas, and conversation.
Garden Club
A volunteer-led project where art and gardening come together to cultivate a shared creative space.
Open Studio Signup
Sign up to facilitate or join in-person Open Studio; for virtual Open Studio, jam sessions, or open mic, email volunteer@pathwithart.org
Feedback
Teaching Artists help shape this program! If you have ideas, suggestions, or resources that could support others, we’d love to hear from you. Connect with Emily Shallman, Director of Programs | 509.551.3138 (text or call during business hours) | emily@pathwithart.org or submit an end-of-class reflection online here.