Ms. Donna Gooch, Carmel Christian’s beloved visual arts teacher, discovered her passion for art all the way back in 8th grade. Inspired by an encouraging teacher who recognized her talent early on, Ms. Gooch found her creative spark even though she’s the only one in her family who truly values art.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Gooch is full of surprises. She loves to DIY; she can fix washers and dryers; her mom lives with her; and she just so happens to be Carley Roden’s neighbor. She is also a reader, often finishing one or two books each week.

As a child, Ms. Gooch dreamed of becoming Shirley Temple, not for the fame, but because of her love of dance. More than anything, she longed for a loving family and a good life. Becoming an art teacher was not part of the original plan. But, she believes God had other ideas for her life, and she’s grateful for the path He led her down.

Ms. Gooch is not only a teacher but also the advisor for Carmel’s Art Club and National Art Honor Society (NAHS), guiding students in creating the artwork for major school events, like Homecoming, Prom, Sadie’s, and the Daddy-Daughter Dance.

Her favorite part of teaching is the students. She loves the chance to live life alongside them, sharing about art, faith, and everything in between. “I always look forward to her class,” says Sara Parker, one of Ms. Gooch’s top art students. “I’ve known Ms. Gooch for a long time, and she’s a teacher I’ve always enjoyed having.”

Parker’s favorite thing about Ms. Gooch is “how welcoming and easy she is to talk to.” It is clear that Ms. Gooch’s warmth and genuine care make her classroom a place where students feel valued and inspired to create.

When asked what advice she would give to struggling artists, Ms. Gooch says, “Believe in yourself. Do art from the heart.” Her dream for the future is to one day open her own art gallery, but, until then, her mission is to help every student find joy in art, regardless of their skill level.

Ms. Gooch’s life and teaching reflect one lesson she holds close: never judge a book by its cover. Carmel Christian is lucky to have a teacher so committed not just to art, but to her students and her faith.