FHS welcomed seven new staff members for the 2024-2025 school year. Among those staff members are two new fine arts wing teachers; Jennifer Hamilton and David Bassin. 

Formerly at Tomek-Eastern Elementary, art teacher Jennifer Hamilton began teaching 14 years ago in Feb. 2010. Prior to her time at Fenton Schools, Hamilton taught elementary and middle school art at Aspire Charter Academy in Gary, Ind. and Linden Charter Academy in Flint.

Before finding her love for art, Hamilton was on the path to a career in early education. “I quickly realized it wasn’t for me,” Hamilton said of her time going to school for early education She then attended a different school to pursue her newfound appreciation for art. 

Post graduation, Hamilton began working as a long-term substitute art teacher at Linden Elementary. This experience encouraged her to go back to college for a teaching certification. “I realized how much I still loved teaching and that the art room was the perfect place for me,” Hamilton said.

“I have been loving FHS so far,” Hamilton said. “I have taught every grade level besides 9-12 and have been really enjoying seeing older artists and how they work.” 

Having previously taught at Tomek-Eastern Elementary, Hamilton’s new position at FHS has allowed her to reconnect with many of her former students. She is currently teaching Art Foundations, Sculpture/Drawing/Painting, Advanced Art, AP Art and IB Art. In these courses, Hamilton teaches a variety of concepts including the elements of art, collages, three-dimensional wire creations and having her students brainstorm possible artworks for the future.   

Our next new staff member, Theatre Director David Bassin, also has a love for the fine arts. He has been teaching for 16 years, 14 of which have been at Fenton Area Public Schools. Bassin previously taught music at both Fenton Intermediate School, North Road Elementary and choir at AGS Middle School. 

“When I heard about the opening at FHS I was excited at the prospect of teaching drama,” Bassin said. This year, he is teaching Intro to Drama/Theater, Advanced Drama and IB Drama. He also is the director of this year’s All-School Play. 

Bassin has been a part of theater for most of his life. Beginning in high school, he played the keyboard in pit orchestra from freshman to senior year. While teaching at AGS, he directed three musicals. “I have worked in community theater for several years, have directed several productions and appeared on stage twice,” Bassin explained. He also owns a community theater in South Lyon with his wife, who he met working on a musical in high school, “I played the piano and she ran spotlight,”

“I am enjoying FHS. I am loving the atmosphere and really enjoy working with this age group,” Bassin said. In his courses this year, Bassin’s students are learning about the principles of movement and small group scenes.

Hamilton and Bassin are looking forward to what is ahead as they begin these new chapters of their careers.