Alice Yang inspires young artists as the art teacher at Cape Horn-Skye Elementary and Canyon Creek Middle school. Yang believes the art room is where students, regardless of their future professions, find a safe space to explore ideas, examine and solve problems, learn skills like perseverance, and develop empathy. “Art by nature is inspirational,” she explained. “My students help me to maintain that drive.”

Outside of the classroom, she has played a significant leadership role with Washougal Youth Arts Month, is a member of the Columbia River Arts and Cultural Foundation, is the liaison to Clark County Arts Commission for Washougal, and most recently was coordinator of the new Parkersville Day event student art contest.

Through her school and community efforts, Yang’s goal is to help Washougal grow stronger together through art experiences. “I want each community member to feel important, valued, and cared for,” she said. “This will help us to weather any storm that comes our way. Long live the arts!”