Joel Sutton

My name is Joel Sutton.  I grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma USA.  I attended the University of Tulsa where I earned a Bachelor's in Economics and a Master’s of Arts in Education. Since 2011, I’ve been teaching at Shanghai Community International School in Shanghai, China where I’m currently the Head of Design. Before that, I taught for Tulsa Public Schools in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In addition, I also worked for Apple and as an adjunct instructor of computer technologies at Tulsa Community College.

This site, though not often updated, is a quick glimpse into my classroom and personality. Thanks for visiting!

USB Shadow box Nightlights - Grade 7 - 2020-21

Sensational Semiotics - Grade 7 - 2020-21

Slot Together Products - Grade 8 - 2020-21

Decorative Wooden Storage Solutions - Grade 8 - 2020-21

Subjects Taught:

• MYP Design
• MYP Visual Arts
• Math (HS & MS)
• Computer Graphic Arts
• Yearbook & Desktop Publishing
• Percussion Ensemble
• Computer Concepts & Applications
• Multimedia & Video Production

"Joel has done nothing but show true professionalism in every aspect of his job, and his commitment to education and becoming an better teacher has been outstanding. . .  Every school has one or two teacher leaders who drive and shape the culture of a community, and Joel is doing that for us."  -  Dan Kerr,  Lower School Director, American School of Paris - Full Letter of Recommendation

"Joel’s multiple talents and abilities means that he is capable of teaching a wide variety of subjects, but his flexibility and willingness to tackle new projects means that he often acts as a pinch hitter to help where possible."  -  Jessamine Koenig, HS Principal, Hangzhou International School - Full Letter of Recommendation

"Mr. Sutton is a highly qualified, experienced, tactful, and knowledgeable practitioner of multiple pedagogic disciplines. . . His extra-curricular activities and formal school publications are exemplary."  -  Dr. Rocky du Randt, Head of School, Peking University Experimental School - Full Letter of Recommendation

"I just wanted to tell you how great your Sip PD was today!  Thank you thank you thank you. It was the most useful PD I've had in my 6 year career!" - Ms. V. Tolino, colleague

"Just a quick note to say again that I think that you've got a lot of awesome stuff happening in your classroom.  Having all of those kids ask me for feedback was inspiring and I loved the way you were leading the questioning so as not to just tell but rather let them discover.  Anyway, great stuff, thanks for all the work you do between the music department and the tech side of things!" ~ Mr. B. Olson, Vice Principal

"Thank you, thank you, thank you!  You always find the time to photograph at all of our events and we are so grateful that you take the time to capture the wonderful moments of our middle school students.  Thanks for all you do for us."  - Kim & Brian, colleagues

"You do such an awesome work with our yearbook and the photos you take. Thanks so much.This is really special and I appreciate the enthusiasm and support you provide us all" - C. Geisen-Kisch, colleague

"Thanks so much for these pics and for being such a great leader within our music program.  Danielle really enjoys your class and we hope after middle school she’ll pursue more of her talents. Thank you again for guiding her along the way and being such a great teacher." - J. Stubbs, Parent & Superintendent of Schools, SCIS

"The yearbook looks incredible!!  I can't believe how detailed and complex every page is.  This the most impressive yearbook I've every seen." - J. Pigott, MYP Arts teacher

"I believe it was in 6th grade iMedia class when I met you the first time. Then, I had Graphic Design 1 class with you the next year. I really enjoyed those technology classes with you, and I thought that I would never be able to have classes with you again. However, when I heard that you are the teacher of Desktop Publishing class, I immediately gave up my decision towards art class and I finally decided to take this class with you!" - L. Kang, student

After helping a former student through a difficult moment in her life, she wrote me saying "...coming from you, someone I've always respected and admired, means a lot. Its been five years and I still expect/respect your teachings.... Thank you Mr. Sutton" - Mitchell, student