MRS. LAREAU

LET’S LOG ON TO CREATIVE CLOUD, CLASS. Teaching graphic design and photography has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. I love inspiring students to think creatively, develop technical skills, and see the impact of their work in the real world. Through various in class and community projects, I bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional experience, empowering students to become visual storytellers in their own right. Check out some of the projects I’ve done with students over the years.

Fueling Creativity: Food Truck Branding Project

About halfway through second semester, I being a unit on branding design with my design students. Through this unit we explore various parts of branding, from personal branding to label design. The work we do all year leads up to this unit— and our final project. This final project challenges students to create a full visual identity for a fictional food truck. Students are given the option of designing for one of the following:

  • MOBILE MELTDOWN, a grilled cheese food truck

  • BOOKS AND BREW, a mobile coffee truck and mini bookshop

  • WAFFLE WAGON, a breakfast food inspired truck

  • TACO TANGO, a taco truck

Designs reflects each student’s unique vision for each food truck. They start this process with sketching logo designs, then move into designing logos, a menu design, and food truck wrap in Adobe Illustrator. Finally, they create a full branding guide for submission. Explore some of their incredible, professional-grade logo design work below.

Capturing Memories: Family Photo Service Project

What started as a small holiday gesture—free family photos for teachers and their families—is growing into a school community service project. Started in fall 2024, our student photographers stepped into the role of professionals, capturing Christmas memories that our families will treasure for years to come.

Initially held at our school during the holidays, this project has expanded to include our broader school community. Now hosted at a local park, the Family Photo Project not only provides beautiful portraits but also serves as a fundraiser for our Fine Arts Department. Students take the lead in every aspect—from directing families and capturing candid moments to editing and delivering polished photos. It’s a wonderful way to blend creativity, learning, and community service. Check out some of their work from 2024 below.