WACO, Texas — The Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) awarded the 2022 District of Distinction Award to Waco Independent School District (WISD) for the fourth year in a row. Only the top 5 percent of districts in Texas earn this honor for providing a well-rounded education that integrates visual arts curriculum to inspire creativity and build social emotional learning that connect learners to their community and beyond.

Waco ISD has earned the award each year since TAEA began honoring districts that meet the rigorous criteria in 2019.

For the 2022 award, over 1,200 districts were eligible to apply with only 59 earning this prestigious distinction. Each district submitted documentation of meeting the 14-point rubric over the 2021-2022 school year. The winners will be honored at the TAEA Administration & Supervision Division meeting and General Session during the TAEA Fall Conference General Assembly on Friday, November 10, 2022.

“Waco ISD has set a high standard for visual arts advocacy, integrated visual arts curriculum, encouraged creativity, community participation and student growth,” said Sandra Newton, Chair of the Administration and Supervision Division of TAEA. “It is a true testament to your visual art educators’ skill, dedication, and flexibility that the quality of their programs continued to provide strong and comprehensive visual art educational experiences to students.”

“I am extremely proud of our visual arts programs and the opportunities they provide our students,” said Susan Kincannon, Waco ISD Superintendent. “I am grateful to our fine arts administration and the wonderful teachers who do such an outstanding job. Our kids benefit immensely from their hard work and these programs.”

About TAEA:
TAEA is the largest state professional organization for art educators in the United States. It is the mission of TAEA to promote quality visual arts education through leadership, advocacy, service, and professional development. To learn more about TAEA visit www.taea.org.