Fine Arts
Meet Our Fine Arts Teachers
Orchestra: Laura Lucas started her music journey singing in her elementary school choir. She began playing flute in junior high and after high school went on to complete a Bachelor of Music degree at The University of Houston. She then earned a Master of Music in flute performance and a Performers Certificate from Temple University in Philadelphia. She began teaching public school strings in 2000 and received her all-level music teaching certification in 2003. Working for Project GRAD, her responsibilities included the co-direction of Orchestras and instruction of violin, viola, cello, and double bass for students in grades K-5. Since 2013 she works as Orchestra Director & Music Teacher here at Crockett Elementary Magnet School for the Performing and Visual Arts in HISD. Ms. Lucas is an active freelance musician, private lessons instructor, and co-owner of Sassafras Studio.
Art Benjamin Buggs is an alum of HISD from Booker T. Washington H.S and graduated from Texas College in a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Mr. Buggs started his Art Education career in 2011 which ranges from elementary, middle and HCC Adult High School. In his personal career Mr. Buggs has work with multiple mediums like, drawing, paint, printmaking, screen printing, wood engraving and prop design.
The motivation of being an Art teacher is to display the expectation to the students and see the growth throughout the school year. Mr. Buggs ensures the students will use their abilities to display artwork base on history and environment. Student's artwork should be inspired by social issues, current events, and moral ethics. Most importantly students should strive creatively from cartoon illustrations, the simplicity of a love that is shared with family, to the inner struggle to follow dreams and maintain personal morals.
Choir: Blaine Cowen is an accomplished music educator with a Bachelor of Music in Education from UTSA and eight years of experience as a choir teacher. Throughout his career, Mr. Cowen has taught students of all levels, directed award-winning choirs at South Houston High School, led multiple musical productions, and received a Tommy Tune Award for his production of "The Wizard of Oz". His expertise as a pianist and musical director has enhanced choir programs and captivated audiences, making him a valuable and inspiring presence in his school community. Passionate about fostering musical talent, Blaine continues to inspire young musicians through dedicated choral and theatrical education.
Mr. Cowen’s Crockett Choir offers an exciting opportunity for anyone who loves to sing and perform. Join us to explore the power of your voice as you dive into a variety of favorite tunes and discover new ones. Whether you dream of being a standout soloist or prefer blending in with the group, every voice plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and dynamic performance.
Percussion Anthony Alex is a dedicated musician and educator. Mr. Alex has devoted his life to sharing his passion for percussion. His lifelong journey began at a very young age, and since then, he has earned a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Lamar University, along with his teacher certification. During his time at Lamar, Mr. Alex was a member of the university's award-winning percussion studio, which earned a championship title at the 2015 Percussive Arts Society Indoor Drumline competition.
Mr. Alex is thrilled to be a part of the Crockett Elementary team and is committed to strengthening the legacy of excellence that has been established at the school. He believes that music education is a powerful tool for personal growth and is excited to inspire the next generation of musicians. He is dedicated to fostering a love for percussion in young learners and helping them build a skill set they can be proud of, all while having fun.