Joan Hopton is a substitute at our school who has been subbing for 15 years. Hopton became a substitute teacher because she likes being active and meeting new people.

Hopton didn’t start out as a substitute teacher though. She has experience in other fields as well such as ministry and art.

“First, I like to let you know, I was an artist before I became a pastor. I completed my Bachelor of Art Degree in Art/ Education.  Having the background of an artist allowed me to see beyond what was in front of me.  For example, when sitting and painting a still life, one can only see one side. However, if the artist moves their position, they will see something different. So, when I answered the call to the ministry, and became a pastor, I was able to envision, look beyond what the congregation saw in themselves, and able to be an encouragement to each member as they walked through their faith journey,” Hopton said. “Now, how has this impacted my teaching, I look beyond what a student sees in themselves.  From pre-K to 12th grade, I see a painting of life, which has much to offer. Therefore, I never judge a student negatively, because I know their story has not ended, the good part has just begun, and they will have a story to tell.”Hopton said.

Hopton believes in every student and their potential.

“I love meeting each of the students because I see a future. I see more in you than you see in yourselves. So, I love meeting new people and seeing all their styles. Back in my day we had afros and tyshekias.” Hopton said.

Even the best substitutes have to unwind sometimes. 

“I go home, I put a little jazz on, I go to my little art area, I look around, and I go in the refrigerator and grab a Klondike,” Hopton said.

When not unwinding, Hopton has several hobbies that she enjoys participating in.

“I like reading and also, I paint. I’m an artist. Yes, I have an art studio at my house. I’ve given paintings away and some sold. I have pursued art all my life. Really that’s what I went to college for, to become an art teacher. The money really wasn’t there for art back in the day, “Hopton said

These hobbies that Hopton enjoys have led her to publish her debut novel Women of Color, a story that took inspiration from Hopton’s work in portraiture.

“Several years ago, I began painting again, but this time with watercolor paints, moving away from scenery and still life painting, trying something different, painting caricatures of women’s faces with vibrant head dresses, jewelry, and different skin tones,” Hopton said. “As the finished paintings hung on my wall, I could see in each face they had a story to tell.  It was then I was inspired to write Women of Color telling their story,” Hopton said. 

However, before releasing her novel, Hopton had a virtual art gallery with the same name, but doing so took a lot of hard work and some experiences of failure.

“When I was a young woman, back in the 1970’s, my dream was to have my own art gallery. I shared my dream with my dad, who said he would invest in my dream. All I had to do was find a place and he would pay the first six months’ rent,” Hopton said. “Well, time passed by, and my dad asked me how I was doing with finding a place to rent. I didn’t answer him with a positive response, so my dad, who owned his own business, said he could not invest in my dream because of the doubt I had in myself,” Hopton said.

However, success came along with new tools at Hopton’s disposal.

“Time passed, technology came up with virtual software and here’s when I knew this was the time to create a virtual art gallery at no cost, no rent, and exhibit for my paintings, using zoom application to enable me to invite family and friends to my Art Show, Women of Color,” Hopton said.

Responses have already started to come in for Hopton’s book.

“I have received positive feedback, stating that Women of Color telling their Stories, is encouraging, motivating and faith-inspiring stories which resonate with any women. Many have said, “What a terrific book for women group study, or as a gift for holidays, birthdays or just because.”,” Hopton said

Hopton’s writing journey isn’t over yet though. 

“Plans for the future are continuing to create stories from paintings or paintings to stories. Currently writing a children’s book and painting pictures. In the future my manuscript If You Could Walk in My Shoes will be sent to my publisher,” Hopton said.

Despite having bright plans for continuing working in the future, Hopton also has bright plans for her future retirement. 

“My husband and I can retire and be on the beach and just walk through the sand and see the ocean,” Hopton said. 

A common misconception is that substitutes don’t know what they’re doing; however, Hopton is not one to be messed with. 

“Don’t play with me, do not curse around me. I feel students can use a different adjective. Don’t be so mean to each other. And another thing, I don’t like when young men stand in front of me with their behind showing,” Hopton said.

Years of subbing and her experience with her other careers has made Hopton exceedingly wise. She gives her high school students this advice.

“Each of you are beautifully and wonderfully made. You have your own mind; you have your own lane you need to walk down. Also, enjoy your high school years,” Hopton said.