Art teacher Mr. Brian Kuehn is retiring after teaching for 39 years. He started his career in Herman, MN and also taught at the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf, Shattuck-St. Mary’s and Faribault High School. He later moved to the Owatonna Public Schools and has been teaching here for about 25 years. Mr. Kuehn earned his degree from Winona State University.

Mr. Kuehn is an art teacher but he is also so much more. Mr. Kuehn has created a space at OHS where students can express their creativity, learn problem-solving

skills and create art in forms of self-expression. He has a way to keep students involved in their work and he has created such a light-hearted and friendly environment.

During retirement, Mr. Kuehn looks forward to having more freedom so he can do whatever he wants when he wants. He is also excited to travel more and exercise in his new free time. 

Not only is Mr. Kuehn an art teacher but he is also an artist that inspires his students. He has a unique approach to his art and he is always encouraging his students to also take a leap of faith and be creative. After presenting the class lesson for the day, Mr. Kuehn will work on his art as well.

Junior Emily Mcmasters said “My favorite thing about him is that he would always make coming to class fun and he would take time to get to know all of his students in class. He always encourages everyone to be creative.”

Mr. Kuehn is and always will be a valuable asset to Owatonna High School. He has taught hundreds of students so much throughout his years here. 

Mr. Kuehn’s advice for OHS students is: “Curiosity and effort are the most important things and they will take you very far. Don’t ever lose that.”