ABOUT SOUTH HOLLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT 151 FINE ARTS
Mission Statement:
The Fine Arts Department of South Holland S.D. 151 is dedicated to nurturing the artistic and intellectual growth of our students through a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum. We strive to cultivate creativity, technical mastery, and a deep understanding of the visual and performing arts. By providing a supportive and inspiring environment, we aim to prepare students for successful careers in the arts and to enrich the cultural life of our community through innovative and meaningful artistic expression.
The Fine Arts Department of South Holland School District 151 Fine Arts is dedicated to nurturing the artistic and intellectual growth of our students through a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum.
Dr. Teresa D. Hill
Meet Our Superintendent
Dr. Teresa Hill is an educational leader with more than 26 years of experience working with students, educators, and leaders. She has served as Superintendent of South Holland District 151 in South Holland, IL since 2012. Dr. Hill has earned Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Administration from Illinois State University where she researched the achievement gap. Dr. Hill started her career teaching a kindergarten class of 31 students in an urban school. She has also served as an assistant principal, a principal, and an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.
Dr. Hill has devoted her career to combating achievement gaps. Her motto is "All children can learn . . . period." She has consulted with multiple school districts and presented at district, state, and national conferences across the United States, helping schools improve outcomes for underserved students. She is the author of The Instructional Leader’s Guide to Closing Achievement Gaps: Five Keys for Improving Student Outcomes (ASCD 2024).
MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS
Mr. Moody has been in music education for over 20 years and previously served as the Director of Bands at Coolidge Middle School in Phoenix, Illinois. Under his direction, the band program has grown to more than 225, 4th -8th grade students, who have competed in several regional competitions where they achieved high honors. He currently serves as the Director of Fine Arts in District 151, and is committed to providing opportunities for all 151 students to excel in the arts field!
Mario Moody
Director Of Fine Arts
Jordan Hawken
General Music
With close to a decade of private teaching experience and nearly a year in the classroom, I'm very excited to join the VMAA family to teach group piano classes this fall! These lessons offer a valuable opportunity to collaborate with other musicians in a low-pressure environment with a unique level of peer support. Your musician will learn in-depth music theory, fundamental piano techniques, and how to perform in an ensemble.
I am a music educator who is excited and ready to continue to share my love and passion for the art of music with the community. In addition to being a music educator, I am a violinist, vocalist, and performer. I have been provided with requisite skills and knowledge to allow me to teach future string musicians the joy of performing on a string instrument!
Strings Instructor
Tamia Smith
Kimberly Smith
Choir Instructor
Kimberly Smith has been singing since the age of 3 and playing the piano since the age of 5. She was born into a musical family full of singers and musicians. Kimberly became the lead musician at her church for the adult choir at the age of 11 and has been teaching and training voices ever since.
Kimberly attended the University of Illinois-Urbana and earned her B.A. in Music History. While there, she was an accompanist and Assistant Conductor for two years to the over 200 voice choir. Kimberly has earned a master’s degree in music education from DePaul University in Chicago.
In the district choir, students will learn how to warm up the voice, learn a variety of genres of music and styles of singing. They will develop their ear to sing in parts and create harmonies. It is a goal that the district choir participate in choir competitions.
Jessica Moore
Art Teacher
Jessica Moore is a passionate and creative educator excited to bring the joy of art to young students in District 151. With a background in both visual arts and early childhood education, Jessica seeks to create a warm, supportive space where young artists can explore, take risks, and express themselves.
Her journey into teaching began at the Adler Planetarium, where she led hands-on science programs and discovered a deep love for helping others learn through curiosity and creativity. After working as a high school paraprofessional, she earned her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and gained experience teaching all grade levels—from Kindergarten to high school.
Jessica’s own artistic path includes drawing, painting, crocheting, violin performance, praise dance, puppetry, and multimedia work. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Multimedia Studies with concentrations in Film Studies and TV/Video Production, and even spent a semester in Los Angeles creating student films. Her diverse artistic experiences help her inspire students to see art in all areas of life—from painting and drawing to technology and storytelling.
Jessica believes that every child is an artist—they just need the space and support to discover their creative voice.
Hi! My Name is Sarah Madix
I'll be teaching instrumental classes.
I've been teaching music, both vocal and instrumental, for over 10 years to students of a variety of ages.
I am looking forward to creating an environment of growth, vigor and enhanced musicianship.
Music is my passion and I'm excited about sharing and teaching it
Sarah Madix
Band Director
Creana Fobbs is a passionate dance artist and educator from the south suburbs of Chicago, with over 15 years of experience in ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary, and hip hop. Beginning her dance journey at age five, she trained under esteemed mentors and continued her studies at Southern Illinois University.
She has performed with companies such as the Chicago Contemporary Dance Company, Mahdi Theater Company, and the Southern Illinois Dance Company, and appeared in major productions including Bronzeville: The Musical at the Chicago Theatre.
As a choreographer, Creana has created works for school and community stages, blending technique and emotion across styles. She has also produced 15 school musicals, using dance to inspire and empower youth.
Now returning to School District 151 as an alumna and educator, Creana is thrilled to give back to the community that shaped her.
Creana Fobbs
Dance Instructor
