SUSAN ROTHMAN always had crayons or a paintbrush in her hands. In college, she debated between teaching and art. Art won! After graduating from Northern Illinois University, Susan began her career in graphic design. Then came her own children and painting furniture and murals. She went on to receive her teaching credential from University of California San Diego, and then taught art in the Solana Beach School District. Next she taught in the San Diego Unified School District VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts) program, and worked with neurodiverse students and discovered how much art sparked their inner souls. She was inspired to go back to school and earned her special education credential and Masters in Art and Autism from Point Loma Nazarene University. Her time as a special education teacher in the Chula Vista Elementary School District is where she touched many lives. Susan’s journey led her to special education advocacy work and also teaching a variety of art classes and helping her students express themselves and find their creative outlet. She believes there is something very therapeutic about watching art emerge as students create; whether it’s mixed media, mosaic, journaling, or watercolor. Her speciality is giving neurodivergent students a voice in the arts. Art is a safe space for these students, and also for others, with mental health conditions, to express themselves and shine. When she is not teaching art, Susan can be found spending time with her grandkids or her favorite poodle, Norman.