Laura Shaw

Job Title

• Adjunct Instructor of Education
  Teaching (M.A.), Graduate School

Highlight

Laura Shaw is a dedicated educator, internationally selling artist, and mentor with over 25 years of experience in visual arts education. Passionate about integrating creativity, faith, and pedagogy, she is committed to equipping the next generation of teachers for impactful and Christ-centered careers

Started at Bethel

2025

Education

• Minnesota State University, Mankato - B.S. in Speech Communication, 2005
• Bethel University - M.A. of Teaching in Visual Arts, 2022

Biography

Laura Shaw brings over 25 years of experience in education, specializing in visual arts instruction across diverse K-12 settings. As a dedicated educator and mentor, she is passionate about equipping the next generation of teachers with the skills and confidence to integrate creativity, faith, and effective pedagogy in the classroom.

Laura holds a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on Visual Arts from Bethel University and has extensive experience mentoring pre-service and early-career educators. Her leadership in curriculum development, student-centered learning strategies, and school-community partnerships has helped foster dynamic and inclusive art education programs.

In addition to her work in education, Laura is an internationally selling artist whose work has reached audiences beyond the classroom, inspiring creativity and connection through visual storytelling. She is also an ordained pastor and chaplain, allowing her to support students holistically—nurturing both their professional and spiritual growth. Committed to Bethel University’s mission of Christ-centered education, she is excited to serve as a guide and advocate for teacher candidates as they navigate their student teaching experience.

When she’s not in the classroom, Laura enjoys golfing, painting and spending time with her family, supporting her daughters’ artistic and athletic pursuits, and finding inspiration for her own creative work.

Courses Taught

Studio Art, Graphic Design, Photography, Ceramics, Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Printmaking, Digital Art, Mixed Media, Art History, and Textile/Fiber Arts.

Publications

Publications:

• Growth Mindset in the Visual Arts: A Framework for Enhancing Student Learning. Bethel University Spark. Author: Laura Shaw.

Certificates and Licenses

• Ordained Pastor & Chaplain – International Fellowship of Chaplains (2023)
• Minister License – Living Word Christian Center
• Master of Arts in Teaching – Visual Arts – Bethel University (2022)
• Child Protection: Children's Rights in Theory and Practice Certificate – Harvard Online (2020)
• Teaching License – Visual Arts K-12 (Minnesota)
• Critical Incident Stress Management Certification
• Training in P.T.S.I., Trauma, Grief, and Loss
• Human Trafficking Awareness & Prevention Training
• Suicide Prevention & Intervention Training
• Disaster Response & Death Notification Training
• Confidentiality, Ethics, Chaplaincy, and Law Training

Professional Organizations, Committees, and Boards

• Living Word Christian Center
• International Foundation of Chaplains
• National Art Education Association (NAEA)

Hobbies and Interests

• Writing/Reading
• Painting
• Golf
• Volleyball
• Hiking
• Photography
• Ceramics
• Prayer
• Bible Study
• Mindfulness

Areas of expertise

Visual Arts Education: Expertise in teaching Visual Arts at various levels, with a focus on creative expression and fostering artistic development. Special Education: Skilled in adapting teaching strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with disabilities or learning differences. Art Pedagogy: In-depth knowledge of art teaching methods, assessment, and curriculum design, strengthened by advanced education in Art Education. Early Childhood and Elementary Education: Experience teaching PreK-6 and a strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate instructional strategies. Childcare and Early Learning: Extensive experience in early childhood care and education, including managing a daycare and understanding the developmental needs of young children. Ministry and Chaplaincy: Licensed minister, ordained pastor, and certified chaplain, with expertise in integrating spiritual support into educational environments. Growth Mindset in the Arts: Expertise in applying growth mindset principles to the visual arts, supported by your research and published thesis. Creative Practice: Personal engagement with art forms such as painting, photography, ceramics, and writing, enriching your ability to inspire and mentor students. Community and Family Engagement: Focus on supporting students' and families' involvement in the arts, athletics, and other creative pursuits.

Research interests

Growth Mindset in the Arts: Exploring how growth mindset principles can enhance student learning and foster resilience, creativity, and self-efficacy in the visual arts. Art Education Pedagogy: Investigating effective teaching strategies, curriculum development, and assessment techniques in visual arts education, particularly for diverse student populations. Integrating Spirituality in Education: Exploring the intersection of ministry, chaplaincy, and education, particularly in how spiritual support can impact student well-being and academic success. Inclusive Education: Researching strategies for creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for students with disabilities or other learning needs, particularly within the arts. Creative Development in Children: Examining how creative practices, such as painting, photography, and ceramics, contribute to the cognitive and emotional development of children, especially in education. Mindfulness in Education: Investigating the role of mindfulness practices in enhancing student focus, emotional regulation, and well-being, both in general education and in art classrooms.

Teaching specialty

Visual Arts Education: Experienced in teaching Visual Arts at the high school level, with a strong background in curriculum development and fostering creative expression. Special Education: Skilled in adapting instructional strategies to meet the diverse needs of learners, with expertise in providing individualized support to students with various learning differences. Art Pedagogy: Master’s in Education with a focus on Visual Arts, specializing in effective teaching methods, assessment, and the integration of art into broader educational frameworks. Early Childhood and Elementary Education: 20 years of experience teaching PreK-6, as well as infant and toddler ages with a comprehensive understanding of child development and the ability to design engaging, age-appropriate lessons. Childcare and Early Learning: Extensive experience in managing and operating a daycare business, contributing to a deep understanding of early childhood education and developmental milestones. Ministry and Chaplaincy: Licensed minister, ordained pastor, and certified chaplain, with a unique ability to integrate spiritual guidance and support within educational settings.

Quote

Psalm 127:3 “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.”

Website

https://laurapaigeshaw.weebly.com/