“GRPS Champions” is a web series published every Monday celebrating the incredible work of GRPS team members.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- For Lisa Herman, teaching at Coit Creative Arts Academy is about empowering scholars to take ownership of their learning. With a passion for inquiry-based teaching, she finds joy in guiding students through exploration and discovery.
“Inquiry-based learning is such a rewarding approach because it encourages student-driven discovery,” Herman explained. “I love the flexibility and creativity in lesson planning, and I get to witness those incredible ‘aha!’ moments when scholars construct their own understanding.”
As a proud GRPS graduate, Herman brings a deep sense of pride to her role.
“I’m not just working a job—I’m actively shaping the future of a place that has personal meaning for me,” she said.
At the heart of her teaching philosophy is a commitment to helping scholars develop lifelong learning skills.
“By encouraging scholars to ask questions, explore different perspectives, and seek their own answers, I help them develop independent thinking skills,” she said. “By giving them the freedom to explore topics that interest them and guiding them through the process of inquiry, I empower them to take charge of their own learning.”
Herman’s dedication to student engagement ensures that her scholars don’t just absorb information—they learn how to seek it, analyze it, and make it their own.
