During the entire process of creating her sustained investigation, Lauren took a proactive approach in asking questions, exploring all possibilities, practicing, experimenting, and revising her work, and completely engaged in the art-making process with the communication line open for dialogue. Being diligent, meeting high expectations, and delivering exemplary work in the span of two weeks can be overwhelming, mentally, and physically challenging. Therefore, regular emotional and mental well-being check-ins helped tremendously as well as creating a safe environment for the students to be authentic to let their inhibitions go and explore freely. Dare to be unique and taking risks were highly encouraged and reminded, often followed by examples. Actively engaging in bi-weekly class critiques in addition to one-on-one meetings and social media platforms for furthering the dialogue were accessible to students. Establishing a close relationship and being involved in inquiries were essential in making personal connections in addition to valuing each student. Due to the demanding rigor of this class, students start the year with summer work followed by several Zoom meetings. The highlights of the meetings were focused on training the eyes to see, engaging in critiques, and brainstorming for further possibilities of exploration. The approach and strategies for supporting inquiry-based Sustained investigation components are to encourage students to choose a topic of passion or curiosity where the depth of investigation can be explored further. During this process, heavy emphasis was placed on the thought process, idea development, final decision-making, technical refinements, problem-solving, and critical thinking. This was verbally articulated and visually supported during bi-weekly presentations in addition to recognizing and celebrating small to big milestones.

Being transparent and establishing clear expectations were enforced prior to summer work and reminded on the first day of school. It is believed to be one of the key components in finding success in addition to student accountability. Upholding accountability, integrity, and high standards were practiced and reminded throughout the year. A detailed syllabus was prepared and distributed on the first day of school, outlining goals, due dates, important deadlines, special guest presentations, and more. An overview of the entire year allowed for pre-planning and managing time. Taking more risks and expanding beyond the boundaries were heavily emphasized, as being stagnant does not promote growth. Embracing the discomfort of discovering the unknown was highly encouraged as unfolding and seeking began. Facilitating and guiding the creative process, challenging open-ended inquiry-driven journeys, allowing problem-solving and critical thinking components played critical roles in decision making, hence, practiced and applied regularly. Lastly, recognition and celebration of small successes built self-esteem, increased motivation, and a sense of pride in achievement, and this was applauded wholeheartedly.