Megan Solis MAT '25 is a Teacher Candidate in the Master of Arts in Teaching program at Maine College of Art & Design. Her artistic background includes digital art, storytelling, film, and photography. Currently, she is in the student teaching portion of her degree program and is completing her teaching hours long-distance in Colorado. Upon good academic standing, the MAT program supports teacher candidates who wish to complete their student teaching in the second semester of the program, whether out of state or even in another country.
We wanted to learn more about Megan's project that she pursued through her Exceptionality in the Art Classroom course that MAT students take in the fall semester, where they learn to support, construct an understanding, and gain knowledge of a range of exceptionalities, including students with disabilities and those identified as gifted and talented. For her research project, she chose to focus on the participation of blind students in the art classroom and the benefits of artistic practices for the blind.
Can you talk about your exceptionality research project?
For my exceptionality research project, I chose to do a deep dive into the Participation of Blind Students in the Art Classroom and the Benefits of Artistic Practices for the Blind. After learning about the different methods often used to help visually impaired students experience art and the outstanding benefits of art practices for this community, I knew I had to help.
As someone who enjoys creating picture books, I used everything I know about bookmaking and what I had discovered about methods of adaptability to create a tactile picture book for young readers who may be visually impaired. The book, Daisy’s Brave Journey, depicts a duck that takes an adventure down a new unknown stream and uses her bravery to push through obstacles before discovering a beautiful destination. The book features large fonts, braille, reflective materials, fabrics, and other tactile materials.
Photo of Daisy's Brave Journey courtesy of Megan Solis MAT '25.
During the production of my book, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, Massachusetts. There, I received in-progress feedback on my story and its execution and had the chance to practice adaptive teaching strategies to teach some current students. The completion of this project has inspired me to do more work with exceptional communities and continue to look for new ways to connect with every student.
Photo from Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, Massachusetts, courtesy of Megan Solis MAT '25.
What made you decide to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching, and what made you choose Maine College of Art & Design?
Since I do not have a strong background in education, earning my master’s allowed me to learn more about the teaching career field while also gaining practice. Maine College of Art & Design is located in the most beautiful region of our country; for me it was a new experience and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As someone who did not begin my career path in education, I learned that it is never too late to follow a dream.
What to you is most unique about the MAT program at Maine College of Art & Design?
The MAT program at MECA&D has taught me many invaluable lessons. I have made great friends, worked with great teachers, and learned that anything is possible.
The MAT program is an excellent accelerated option for aspiring art teachers who want to earn their certification and master’s degrees at the same time.
What advice would you give to an artist thinking about whether or not to pursue a teaching career?
This program takes dedication, but so does teaching. If you have a passion for art, enjoy sharing your passions, and like to be doing something new every day, this could be a great career path for you!
How has this program prepared you for the next steps?
This May, I will graduate with a master’s degree, my official teaching license, and various teaching experiences. I feel that my experience has prepared me to enter the job market with confidence.
Post graduation, I hope to have my own classroom and maybe one day be a professor helping other people find their passions as I did.