Art Teacher Miss Cross shares journey to Oneida and passion for education

The Oneida Special School District is embracing creativity and community engagement through its inaugural episode of The Oneida Pride Podcast, aired on May 5, 2025. The episode features an insightful interview with Miss Cross, an art teacher who has recently transitioned from teaching elementary to high school students.

Miss Cross shared her journey to Oneida, which began with a family fishing trip that led to the discovery of a beautiful piece of property. This serendipitous find not only brought her family to the area but also opened the door for her to pursue her passion for art education. With a background steeped in creativity—her mother was an acrylic artist and her brother a commercial artist—Miss Cross expressed her enthusiasm for teaching art, highlighting its limitless nature and the opportunity it provides for students to explore their creativity without constraints.

In the podcast, she discussed her teaching philosophy, emphasizing her love for working with children across various subjects, including math and science. However, it is her current role in art education that she finds particularly fulfilling. Miss Cross believes that art allows individuals to take risks and express themselves, making it a vital part of personal development.

The episode also included light-hearted segments where Miss Cross answered fun questions about her preferences, revealing her love for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, as well as her preference for an endless cup of coffee over a magical lunchbox.

As the Oneida Pride Podcast continues, it aims to foster a sense of community and showcase the diverse experiences of educators within the district. The insights shared by Miss Cross not only highlight the importance of art in education but also reflect the district's commitment to nurturing creativity and personal growth among its students. The podcast serves as a platform for connecting with the community and celebrating the unique stories of those who contribute to the educational landscape in Oneida.