Visual Arts Department

We, as the teachers of the Jordan High School Art Department, are creative, concerned, practical, dedicated teachers that will present a standards-based art curriculum in an interesting, fun, and effective manner. We will use art projects, reading, writing, discussion, and critiques to deliver the content of the lesson.

The Visual Arts Department offers decades of teaching experience and want their students to learn to enjoy and thrive in the arts. The department includes three SLC’s: ETA (Excellence through the Arts),  JMAC (Jordan Media and Communication) and IB (International Baccalaureate). Each SLC provides a well balanced student-oriented curriculum designed to develop the individual for a future in the visual arts fields.

Holly Coar | Visual Arts Department Head

Ms. Coar has been teaching at Jordan since 1990. She teaches 3-D Art and Ceramics.  She is an active member of the Excellence Through the Arts (ETA) and club advisor for The Traveling Panthers.

In 3-D Art class, she encourages self-expression using a variety of materials such as wire, plaster, wood and clay. Students gain experience using different media, techniques and applications. The Ceramics class provides students with an introduction to the hand-building methods using clay. This year-long course teaches ceramic fundamentals and gives students a hands-on experience. Both classes will make projects that are portfolio-ready to put on display in many venues or at home for years of enjoyment.

Tim DeGreif | Art Instructor

Mr. DeGreif has been teaching at Jordan since 1994. He teaches Drawing Painting 1-2, Drawing Painting 3-4 and AP Studio Art. He sponsors the Anime Club. 

His Drawing and Painting courses expose students to art production, art history, and art criticism. In his Art classes, Mr. DeGreif encourages self-expression while providing experiences for students to explore a variety of media, strengthen art production abilities and problem-solving skills. Students who submit an AP Portfolio at the end of the year may receive college credit for their efforts.

Matt Hedley | JMAC Co-Lead Teacher

Mr. Hedley joined the Jordan High School team in 1996 and teaches Computer Technology along with Stylus magazine. He is the Co-lead teacher of JMAC (Jordan Media Arts and Communication) program. 

Computer Design provides a solid foundation in two-dimensional art. Stylus Magazine incorporates visual art and the written language into an annually published, award-winning magazine.  Both of these classes explore the fundamentals of art and design by introducing beginning and advanced students to the joys of artistic self-expression through a standards-based curriculum.

Gary Romanio | Art Instructor

Mr. Romanio has been teaching art in the Long Beach Unified school district for many years. He teaches Drawing and Painting 1-2. He provides a structured environment where students excel in the arts.

Drawing and Painting 1-2 is an introductory course where students begin learning about art; its elements and principles and various techniques and materials. Mr. Romanio provides experiences for students to explore a variety of media, strengthen art production abilities and problem-solving skills.