Rosa Lee Fry, an Art and Photography teacher at Fluvanna, said she originally never planned on becoming a teacher.
“I really struggled in school, actually. A few years after college, I was working in a restaurant and picked up a job as an instructional assistant for extra money. After working one-on-one with elementary school students, I realized I actually really liked teaching. I wanted to be the teacher I wish I had when I was younger,” Fry said.
As a Photography teacher, Fry said she teaches students how to take a photo, and by the end of the class, master photography and editing.
“I love teaching photojournalism because I like for students to see that they can use a camera to comment on, and bring attention to, things that are happening in their world,” she said.
Many of her students say they feel comfortable enough to confide in Fry because of the learning environment she has created and her motivation towards the students. She tries to make her room comfortable for all students and invites everyone in. She also makes sure her projects let students use their creativity.
“I felt very comfortable expressing myself through my photos in her class. She made a safe space for everyone and their arts,” said sophomore Ava Bass.
“She has helped me learn a lot by expressing my own style of photography and not just trying to copy others. She has taught me so much patience and helped me come out of my shell,” said junior Caroline Thomas.
Fry’s class offers a variety of different opportunities for students, and it inspires them to potentially pursue careers in photography or the arts.
“Her class has influenced me to move more into the creative field, showing me that there’s a lot more to design than just making something look good,” said senior Jazmyne Tolliver.
Even if her students do not choose to pursue a career in the arts, the skills they learn in Fry’s classes can be applied in surprising ways.
“Mrs. Fry’s class led me to become a photographer at my church. I take photos for our social media page,” said sophomore Riley Jernigan.
