At STEM School Highlands Ranch we put innovation at the center of learning to unleash the potential of all students and prepare them for an exponentially changing world.
Joe Smith joined STEM at its inception as the school’s first visual arts teacher. Before becoming an educator, Joe worked in the art framing and installation industry and as a professional artist exhibiting throughout the front range. His passion is helping young people realize that they are creative thinkers and problem solvers. At STEM he tries to adhere to Leonardo DaVinci’s philosophy of the complete mind, “Learn the science of art and the art of science.”
He has a BFA in Painting from the University of Kansas and completed his post-baccalaureate teaching licensure at the University of Northern Colorado. He enjoys painting, hiking with his family, movies, and games of all kinds. Rock Chalk Jayhawk!
Favorite Starbucks Drink or Snack: double peppermint mocha
Favorite Snacks: Nuts, trail mix
Favorite Places to Eat: Noodles and Company, Qdoba, Swaylo, Jai Thai, chili’s, Perry’s Pizza, Papa Murphy’s, King Soopers
Favorite Drinks: coffee
Favorite Place to Shop: Target, King Soopers, Amazon
Hobbies: Hiking, painting, video games (in moderation), Magic the Gathering, Dungeons and Dragons (with fellow STEM teachers),
Favorite Colors: Alizarin Crimson