Ransom grew up playing “librarian” with childhood books that still contain old date-due cards, while Laska actually walked these same hallways as a Bush student years ago. Today, the two are using their lifelong passions to transform the student experience through the school’s now full-time library and art programs.

For Ransom, the role is a lifelong calling. She uses that passion she discovered as a child to broaden the student experience.

“There are few other positions in education where a lesson can include cooking, research, and STEM projects all at the same time,” Ransom said. “This is where I can broaden the school experience and provide enrichment opportunities.”

One of the most vibrant examples of this enrichment was a recent collaboration with second-grade teachers. To support a poetry unit, Ransom integrated a study of Hanukkah traditions.

A Bush Elementary School student smiles as he works on a texture project in art class with teacher Taylore Laska. Students at Bush now have the opportunity to experience art and library throughout the entire school year following the additions of full-time art and library teachers at the school.

“We danced, sang, cooked latkes, played the dreidel game and compared the traditions of the Jewish holiday with our own Christmas memories,” Ransom said. “Relating these to our five senses, we then developed an understanding of how to write a poem. Students are publishing their own poems about a perfect winter day using their 5 senses.”

Laska, who attended Bush Elementary as a child, views her return to the school as a “full circle moment.” Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, she served as an art teacher in a different district. With no art openings on the horizon once schools reopened, she served JPS as a paraprofessional at Lincoln Elementary School and the Fashano Technical Academy before stepping into Bush’s full-time art role.

“I love teaching art because it opens doors that you would never expect — there’s the obvious creativity outlet, but there’s also critical thinking, math and logic, problem solving, perseverance, and experimentation,” Laska said. “Art making challenges your brain to think differently, and that in itself can be so therapeutic!”

Laska and Ransom have already found ways to merge their classrooms. Early in the year, they collaborated on “Dot Day,” inspired by Peter H. Reynolds’ book “The Dot.” While Ransom handled the literary side, Laska used the story to set a growth mindset in the art studio.

“There is a quote in the book that says ‘just make a mark, and see where it takes you,’ and that is truly a philosophy I live by,” Laska said. “I think starting with such a positive outlook and growth mindset really helped to set the tone for what students should come to expect from my classroom.”

Both educators agree that these “specials” provide a necessary reprieve for students who may struggle with traditional desk work.

“Kids who might struggle with reading and writing are given a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of a busy school day with a chance to shine in special areas,” Laska said. “I love when you see the light in students’ eyes as they find the magic in something they created!”

Ransom, who joined Bush last spring after a long career that included 26 years teaching in Virginia, noted that the smaller school size at Bush allows her to provide a level of personalized service she hasn’t experienced in larger buildings.

“Being in a smaller school allows me to know students’ interests and their favorite authors or series, and I have been able to offer many more activities because of the small class sizes,” she said.

Bush Principal Kate Benson has been grateful for the contributions both have made since joining the district.

“We are so fortunate to have two dynamic educators like Amy and Taylore who bring such energy and creativity to our building every day,” said Principal Kate Benson. “By having them here full-time, they are able to create those deep, cross-curricular connections that make learning truly come alive for our students.”

From “spooky stories” under a mobile planetarium to students publishing their own poetry, the full-time presence of Ransom and Laska ensures that every child at Bush has the chance to find their voice.

“Jamestown schools run on teamwork and communication… I have found Jamestown to be such a collaborative district that always puts students first,” said Laska.