Physical Theatre Graduate from LSU teaches theatre from acting to improv to callbacks

I first met Lhéaux in the fall of 2025 and hired the teaching artist to work with small children despite having limited experience in a classroom setting at the time. Throughout the year, I had the opportunity to observe, coach, and support Lhéaux’s growth as an educator. It has been rewarding to witness the development of strong classroom management skills, instructional confidence, and an engaging teaching presence.

Lhéaux demonstrates a strong ability to create an engaging, structured, and developmentally appropriate learning environment through movement, music, and creative expression. Throughout observations, Lhéaux consistently maintained high levels of student engagement by using clear routines, playful call-and-response techniques, and positive reinforcement strategies that encouraged participation and confidence among students.

Lhéaux effectively integrated cultural content, including Mardi Gras traditions and seasonal vocabulary, into movement-based lessons that supported body awareness, listening skills, self-regulation, and imaginative thinking. Lessons were thoughtfully designed to allow students to explore creativity while also practicing important classroom behaviors such as freezing, following directions, and respecting personal space. Students responded especially well to cues such as “mirror words,” countdowns, numbered hand signals, drum and maraca transitions, and breathing/reset strategies that helped maintain focus and smooth transitions between activities.

One of Lhéaux’s strengths is the ability to clearly model expectations both physically and verbally, supporting a wide range of learners and participation levels. Criteria for success were explicitly defined, such as describing what makes a “fantastic shape,” and students received specific praise and encouragement throughout the lesson. Lhéaux also created an inclusive environment by allowing students to participate at their comfort level when needed.

Additionally, Lhéaux demonstrated strong reflective teaching practices by thoughtfully adjusting instructional strategies during lessons based on student responses and feedback. I appreciated observing how Lhéaux reflected in real time and made instructional adjustments to better support student understanding and engagement. This flexibility and willingness to refine techniques contributed positively to the overall flow and effectiveness of instruction.

Areas for continued growth include tightening verbal directions during highly energetic moments and streamlining language during transitions to maximize pacing and instructional momentum. Continued reinforcement of safety expectations when using movement props such as scarves will also further support classroom management and student safety.

Overall, Lhéaux brings enthusiasm, creativity, cultural relevance, and strong classroom presence to instruction. The lessons observed reflected meaningful student engagement, intentional teaching practices, and a supportive learning environment that encouraged creativity, movement, and positive peer interaction.