Anna Huerta
Anna Huerta is a dedicated artist, educator, and coach with over three decades of experience shaping young minds and athletes. She currently serves as a visual arts teacher at Alexandria City High School, where she teaches Fundamental Art 1, Art 2, and Art 4, guiding students in portfolio development and college preparation. Anna’s teaching philosophy centers on student-focused, studio-based instruction, allowing students to spend the majority of class time creating art while developing their decision-making and problem-solving skills. Her lifelong commitment to art extends beyond the classroom, as she is an accomplished painter working across multiple mediums, sharing her work through exhibitions and her website, Annahuerta.art.
Alongside her career in education, Anna has built an impressive record in athletics, serving as the Head Volleyball Coach for Metro Volleyball Club and coaching high school teams for more than 20 years. She emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and both physical and mental safety, drawing strong parallels between coaching and her art instruction. Her leadership has shaped countless athletes, fostering championship-level performance while encouraging respect, discipline, and collaboration.
Anna holds a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Missouri Southern State University and a Master’s degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University Irvine. She is actively involved in professional organizations, including the National Art Education Association, USA Volleyball, and the Prince William County Art Society. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for nearly three decades, Anna combines her passions for art and athletics with a dedication to mentorship, empowerment, and lifelong learning.
• VHSL Coach
• Prince William County Coach
• Art Education
• CAP II
• CAP I
• Concordia University Irvine - M.S.
• National Art Education Association
• Prince William County Art Society
• USA Volleyball
• Metro Volleyball Club (coach)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a long-term commitment to both art and education, a student-centered approach that fosters respectful relationships and allows learners the space to grow, and the ability to apply professional studio practices to broader opportunities. For example, during COVID, I focused on developing my personal work and creating a website, which ultimately led to exhibitions and sales.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is helping students fully understand and embrace the creative process, especially within the practical constraints of a school environment—for example, restrictions on materials like oils in the high-school classroom. At the same time, there are significant opportunities, including portfolio-focused coursework that prepares students for college, increased visibility through regional and national club tournaments, and the ability to expand professional reach through exhibitions and an online presence.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life include prioritizing student safety—both physical and mental—fostering respect, encouraging choice, and supporting students as they discover and develop their own creative and athletic abilities.
Locations
Alexandria City Public Schools
Dumfries, VA 22025