In Monique Stanton’s Classroom, Every Student is an Artist
In Monique Stanton’s classroom at Jaanimmarik School in Kuujjuaq, every student is encouraged to see themselves as an artist. Since 2008, Monique has helped young people express their creativity, build confidence, and explore who they are through art. Her approach transforms the classroom into a space where imagination and self-discovery meet.
Nurturing creativity through art
With a fine arts degree from Concordia University and a teaching degree from the University of Ottawa, Monique brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her work. For more than a decade, she has helped students discover and develop their artistic voices, fostering creativity and confidence along the way.
After taking a brief hiatus to support her daughters’ education, Monique returned to the classroom and was delighted to see familiar faces.
In her current project, she invites students to design personal logos that reflect their dreams and values. Through brainstorming, sketching, and finalizing their work in pen and ink, students explore identity and self-expression. “They start by asking, ‘What’s important to me?’” Monique explains. “All kids are artists… we just need to tap into it.”
It’s so fulfilling to see students evolve and grow and become, you know, responsible young people, young citizens.
Inspiring messages for families and students
Inspired by Frida Kahlo’s resilience, Monique draws strength from overcoming her own injuries and from the dedication of her colleagues. “I’m very inspired by the teachers here… especially the Inuit teachers that are here for the kids in their community.”
To parents, she offers heartfelt advice: “Stay involved. We are building young leaders, so we need your help.” And to students: “Keep your eyes on the prize. Make dreams for yourself. Don’t be discouraged… things happen slowly, but they happen.”
Monique’s classroom is more than a space for art—it’s a place where students learn to shape their futures, one brushstroke at a time. Thank you for sharing a moment with us, Monique!
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