Meet your APSI Consultant for AP Art and Design – Colleen Harrigan
Greetings! My name is Colleen Harrigan, and I am a visual arts professional, deeply committed to both teaching and learning. My work within The College Board encompasses a variety of roles that allow me to support students and educators alike. Roles at The College Board At The College Board, I contribute to several capacities, including mentoring aspiring educators and moderating the Online Teacher Community. I also serve as the Co-Lead Workshop Consultant for AP Art and Design and act as the Exam Leader during the Reading. These roles enable me to foster collaboration and growth within the educational community. Teaching Experience Although my academic roots are in the visual arts, my true passion lies in education. I have extensive experience teaching in public, private, charter, and community arts schools. Presently, I teach at the Page School, where I guide students on their creative journeys and provide support to fellow educators through professional development initiatives. Professional Contributions Previously, I served as Co-Chair of the College Board AP Art and Design Development Committee. This position afforded me opportunities to present at state conferences, the National Art Education Association (NAEA), the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and to conduct AP workshops throughout the United States, as well as in Shanghai and Hangzhou, China. Studio Practice and International Experience My studio practice has been shaped by international studies and fellowships in Italy and Japan, where I connected with talented individuals who have greatly influenced my approach to teaching. Commitment to Growth and Collaboration As a lifelong learner, I am dedicated to personal growth and exploration. I look forward to collaborating with others in artistic and educational endeavors, and I am excited to work and learn alongside you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at studioartharrigan@gmail.com. Visit Colleen’s website at https://www.mcolleenharrigan.com/

AP Art & Design APSI Course Description

Join us online for an interactive AP Art and Design workshop designed to support educators in a virtual setting. This work shop blends engaging seminar discussions with remote activities to help you teach the AP Art and Design program effectively. We’ll cover essential program requirements and explore the three portfolio types through digital presentations and collaborative online exercises. Participants will learn ideation techniques for developing classroom experiences focused on the Selected Works and Sustained Investigation sections. We’ll also discuss teaching strategies and review the latest updates on AP program policies and exam grading.
Throughout the workshop, we’ll distinguish the three AP Art and Design portfolios in live video sessions, breakout rooms, and group discussions. Our goals include defining each portfolio’s components—Selected Works and Sustained Investigation—thoroughly reviewing the curriculum framework and scoring rubrics, and participating in a mock scoring exercise using digital tools to reinforce understanding. Attendees will have multiple opportunities for peer dialogue, collaborative discussions, and curriculum development tailored to the diverse needs of Drawing, 2-D, and 3-D Art and Design students.
Additionally, we’ll share insights on effective classroom organization and management, integrating both individual and group critiques, leveraging technology and research, and understanding the influence of historical and contemporary art on image-making. The workshop features collaborative online activities and resource development opportunities to enhance teaching practices, including course planning and pacing.
Whether you’re new to AP Art and Design or experienced, active participation is encouraged to foster the exchange of teaching methods and experiences among colleagues.
What to Have Ready:
•  Basic supplies for studio activities at home
•  Laptop or tablet with internet access
•. Sketchbook
•  A photo or video of your classroom or teaching space (optional)
•  Digital images of student work for group discussion (optional)
•. A favorite art lesson to share with the group
The workshop will be tailored to each participant’s unique interests and needs, equipping you with the latest information to ensure a successful AP Art and Design virtual classroom experience. There will be opportunities to address individual concerns.
I look forward to collaborating and learning together online!
M. Colleen Harrigan
studioartharrigan@gmail.com
2026 WaltonAPSI / AP Art and Design / M. Colleen Harrigan