At YES Prep, our commitment to academic excellence extends beyond the classroom, fostering opportunities for students to unlock their potential and prepare for life beyond high school. Advanced Placement (AP) courses play a vital role in this mission, equipping students with college-level knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the confidence to excel. To celebrate the incredible educators who lead these transformative courses, we are excited to launch our AP Teacher Spotlight blog series.
This series will highlight the passion, expertise, and dedication of YES Prep’s AP teachers, starting with the talented Michael Healey, who has been inspiring students through art education for over two decades.
Michael Healey, a seasoned Advanced Placement (AP) teacher at YES Prep Northline Secondary, has dedicated over 15 years to inspiring young artists within the YES Prep community. With a career spanning 20 years teaching AP art courses and a robust portfolio of accolades, Michael’s impact extends beyond the classroom, shaping the creative and academic futures of countless students.
Demystify Greatness
Healey currently teaches Art 1, Art 2, AP 2/D, and AP Drawing, having previously instructed all levels of high school art, including AP Art History. His journey into education began after earning a BFA in studio art from the University of Texas at Austin. Initially pursuing art full-time, he eventually returned to teaching in 2005 at Lee High School in HISD before joining YES Prep East End Secondary in 2010. After a decade of building relationships and fostering creativity at East End, he moved to YES Prep Northline to establish and develop the high school art program.
The inspiration behind Healey’s teaching career is rooted in his family of artists and the guidance of his high school art teacher at Westchester High School in Spring Branch ISD. He also credits Steve Amstutz, a supportive principal in HISD, for shaping his early career. At YES Prep, school leaders Brittany McGruder and Megan Gibbs have been instrumental in supporting his vision and commitment to art education.
His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of the creative process and community. He allows students to guide their work, ensuring that every year brings unique outcomes. By fostering a collaborative environment where peer-led critiques and input are integral, students gain the confidence to create AP-quality art. Healey serves as a guide, offering support and ensuring students stay on track, while allowing their creativity to flourish.
Building Transformative Relationships
Mr. Healey believes AP courses play a transformative role in students’ lives. AP Art, in particular, builds confidence and equips students with critical skills for future education and careers. It encourages them to push their creative boundaries, develop resilience, and build meaningful relationships. For students hesitant about enrolling in AP Art, he advises discussing goals with teachers and families while emphasizing the transferable skills gained through the course.
For families, Healey underscores the importance of keeping an open mind about the arts. He notes that while art may be considered an elective, it is also a pathway to college and future careers. The work students produce in AP Art showcases their talent and dedication, often exceeding expectations.
Impact
Mr. Healey has witnessed firsthand how AP Art changes students’ trajectories. The rigorous coursework instills habits and confidence that persist long after graduation. Students often reflect on how their experiences in AP Art have shaped their lives, whether they pursue careers in art or apply their creativity and problem-solving skills in other fields.
For Michael, teaching AP Art is both a professional and personal joy. It keeps him connected to the art world and inspired by the fresh perspectives of young artists. Seeing the pride on students’ faces when they achieve greatness is the highlight of his career.
Reflecting on his journey, he recognizes the vital role AP Art has played in his life. It was his gateway to college and a fulfilling career, and he is committed to ensuring his students have access to the same opportunities. For him, AP Art is more than a course—it’s a transformative experience that fosters creativity, relationships, and lifelong success.
Through his dedication and vision, Michael Healey exemplifies the impact of an exceptional educator. His work continues to inspire students to dream big, create boldly, and achieve greatness.
---
YES Prep’s Advanced Placement program is designed to empower students, challenge them academically, and prepare them for college and career success. Educators like Michael Healey exemplify the life-changing impact of AP courses, fostering creativity, confidence, and a love for learning in every student. To learn more about YES Prep’s AP programming and how it transforms the educational journey for our students, visit our website here. Join us in celebrating the educators who make greatness possible!