About me
Michelle Holdt is the lead for Creative Compassionate and a veteran educator with over 35 years of experience in arts education. An enthusiastic specialist in arts integration, she is dedicated to the philosophy of leading an "arts-rich life" and ensuring that the arts are accessible to all students and educators across diverse learning environments.
Throughout her distinguished career, Michelle Holdt has served as a drama teacher, professional development leader, and high-level administrator. Her leadership experience includes roles as the Arts and Restorative Learning Coordinator at the San Mateo County Office of Education and as the Founding Executive Director of Arts Ed Matters. Her work uniquely bridges the gap between creative expression and restorative practices, emphasizing the role of the arts in building empathetic and resilient school communities.
Michelle holds a diverse and prestigious academic background, including a Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Human Development from Harvard University, a Master’s in Theatre and Dance from the University of New Mexico, and a Master’s and Credential in Educational Administration from San Francisco State University. She also holds a K–8 multiple subject credential and an Art Integration Certificate with The Alliance for Arts Learning Leadership, making her a highly versatile leader in both instructional practice and systemic arts advocacy.