Teacher Spotlight: Isa Stratton
Chattanooga, TN– Isa Stratton, Visual Arts teacher at Battle Academy, has had a dynamic and unexpected career journey. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in painting from Mississippi State University (MSU), Stratton’s early career spanned graphic design, photography, painting, working in MSU’s Libraries, and more.
After moving to Chattanooga in 2019, Stratton shifted gears to a career in real estate. After three successful years in the field, Stratton, a mother and a long-time creative, sought more time with her daughter and a career where she could fully express her creative spirit. Stratton went on to pursue her Master’s in Education from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In 2022, at 38, Stratton joined Battle Academy, where she now teaches PreK-5 art. Here, Stratton can incorporate her passions into her work and is closer to her daughter, who is now in 3rd grade at Battle Academy.
Stratton’s teaching philosophy is rooted in creativity and collaboration. “We have the freedom to collaborate and work with other teachers. I can incorporate what the students are learning in their other classes into our art lessons,” she said. For example, Stratton tied 4th grade’s Revolutionary War unit into her class’s material by showing portrait artists of the era. She also had students draw 3D pirate maps after learning typography in their Social Studies class and had students draw various flora and fauna as a part of their PBL on rainforests.
"It's so fun–squeezing into the math room or anywhere and seeing what they're learning. There are tiny nuggets I take away from everyone here. It's fun when the kids say, 'Oh, we just learned that!' 'We just did that!' Their little lightbulb goes off."
Through her time at Battle, Stratton has found stability, connected with her inner child, and gotten back in touch with her creative roots. “It’s been a fun adventure,” she said. “I’m learning more about who I am, making messes, and watching children have fun and learn in class. I have a box of doodles and things kids have made me. I love the hugs and hearing a child be excited about art class. I have enjoyed it here immensely.”
Stratton looks forward to future projects, especially helping with the school’s theatre production of Frozen, drawing from her 10 years of experience in theater and set design. In her class, students will help paint props and sets that will be used for the play. “I love seeing the art and the production all come together. It’s fun to watch the entire school come together and make something happen.”
Stratton’s journey shows the power of creativity, self-discovery, and the transformative impact of teaching–not only on students but also the teachers themselves. By embracing new paths, staying true to her creative passions, and fostering a love for learning, Stratton continues to inspire those around her and shows there’s never a bad time to find your calling.
