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Art School for Children History and Staff

History of the Art School for Children

The Art School for Children was established in 1977 with an enrollment of 30 students. Dr. Ellin Grossman and Mary Ann Boykin worked together to develop model curricula and teaching methods for diverse ages and learners.

After teaching with the Art School for 10 years, Dr. Ann Waltz served as the program director from 2005-2017. Dr. David Moya took over as director in the spring of 2017 and became a clinical assistant professor for the E-12 art education track in the summer of 2020. Dr. David Moya served as the Art Schools director from 2017-2024. The program has expanded to an annual enrollment of over 1,200 students. Classes are held at UH-Clear Lake, after school at numerous elementary schools in the Clear Creek and Friendswood Independent School Districts, at local private schools, and at home school groups.

The Art School for Children is dedicated to offering art classes that benefit all children, inspire pre service teachers, give additional options for professional teachers, and serve families and the community.

Meet the Team

Classes are taught by our director, university students, certified teachers, and others with strong backgrounds in art and/or art education.

Admin - Ariana Estis

Ariana assists in managing registration needs, enrollment records, hiring, and scheduling. She is eager to assist and inform when questions arise. Ariana can also provide information to anyone interested in volunteering to work with the Art School. In addition to being the schools Business Administrator she is one of the Art Schools amazing teachers and an active practicing artist. She is a mixed-media artist from Clear Lake who explores identity and culture through her artwork. She just received her MA in Humanities, but also has a BA in Philosophy and Theology with minors in Psychology and Ethics. She is currently crafting an ceramic cicadas and working on mixed media design projects. She has 10+ years of experience inspiring young artists around Houston and is continuously excited to see what your students will create!

Contact Information: Estis@uhcl.edu

EXT: 3344

Admin - Allison Hall

Allison helps in coordinating marketing efforts, classroom management, and preparing teachers for a successful and colorful semester with their students. Along with assisting in business administration, she often teaches a class or two each semester. She holds a BA in Psychology and Drama and comes from an extensive theatre background in teaching musical theatre and scenic design for ages K-5. Allison has a passion for non-profit education and believes in empowering students by adapting curriculum to meet their developmental stage along with a focus in the process of growth over the final product.

Student Worker - Mrs. Abowd

Mrs. Abowd is one of our amazing student workers who is part of the UHCL's History program. She has built up her experience in ceramics while being a student at the University and is gearing up to start her MA program. We are so fortunate to have someone eager to work with clay and be a fellow Mud Kid.

Student Worker - Ms. Pineda

Ms. Pineda is one of our awesome student workers who is part of UHCL's Art Education program. She has brought such a fun energy to the Art School and we are so thrilled to be a part of her Art Education journey!

Teacher - Ms. C. Vidal

Ms. Vidal is one of the Art Schools amazing student workers and future educators who has been working her way through the Art Education program here at UHCL! She will be graduating in Fall of 2025, and we are thankful to have her just a bit longer! She is excited about working with the older students this summer and is looking forward to seeing everyone's amazing work!

Teacher - Ms. Reilly

Ms. Reilly is currently a A dedicated cosmetology student and independent mixed media artist, she brings over five years of experience working with K–12 students in daycares and camps. Her creative background spans painting, resin art, and hands-on project facilitation that encourages self-expression and confidence. Passionate about community and the arts, she thrives in environments that nurture creativity and inclusion. She is excited to bring her artistic skills and collaborative spirit to our program.

Student Worker - Ms. Vo

Ms. Vo A is a soon to be graduate in Film Studies, she brings over three years of experience in art and design, blending visual storytelling with a strong creative foundation. Her work reflects a deep appreciation for composition, narrative, and the artistic process. Passionate about education and community engagement, she enjoys inspiring others to explore their creative voices. She is eager to contribute to our community!

Teacher - Ms. Sivley

Ms. Sivley is one of our long term educators here at the Art School and a BFA alumni of UHCL! She is knowledgeable and so talented in many mediums including painting, photography, digital art, and more. She is excited to bring some new ideas and classes at the Art School!