The use of visual symbolism can be a powerful tool when conveying ideas and concepts. Hilyd’s theme was personal, powerful, and moving. She beautifully captured the nuances of her life journey through her images. Because the class is a diverse group of artists with a variety of skill sets, it was advantageous to utilize strategies that would play to their individual strengths, and Hilyd used her strengths of visual narrative with grace and bravado. Many class sessions were dedicated to experimentation with media: drawing, painting, printmaking, digital and mixed media. By exposing them to a wide variety of artistic techniques, they were able to individually choose the medium that had the right fit for their concepts. Hilyd discovered that block printing was the most appropriate medium for her portfolio, as the graphic quality of the technique complimented the deeply personal nature of her concept. Formative and summative assessment is crucial for any art class, especially AP, where the criteria for artistic success is more nebulous than in academic courses. Students must be allowed creative freedom for maximum impact of artistic expression, but a rigid framework of the elements of art and principles of design can help to cement the necessary requirements for artistic excellence, regardless of a student’s style or concept. The most successful creative programming in my class was the encouragement to participate in art exhibits and competitions. I am proud of my student achievements in the competitive art world, where their work was juried and awarded in galleries and museums. Hilyd’s artwork was chosen for the prestigious Museum Education Art Competition, one of the crown jewels of the Miami-Dade Public Schools competition season. What I learned from working with Hilyd is that sometimes only the slightest bit of encouragement can lead to amazing things. The fact that Hilyd was able to take core memories that were both joyous and devastating and to funnel those emotions into images that create a lasting impression for any viewer is an outstanding achievement. My school principal Miguel Balsera, is an avid supporter of our art program and ensures that our students can take full advantage of any resources that will nurture their artistic growth and enrichment. My advice to other AP art teachers is to listen carefully to their students. When Hilyd told me of her personal story, I was deeply moved and knew that I had a responsibility to do everything in my power to help guide her through her artistic journey.