Abilene ISD has been named a District of Distinction by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) for a third consecutive year, placing AISD’s visual arts education program in the top 5.5 percent of all districts statewide since 2021.
Additionally, our very own Canon Cavazos, art teacher at Mann Middle School, has been honored with the title of Outstanding Middle School Educator in the state of Texas by the TAEA. Congratulations, Mrs. Cavazos!
According to TAEA, AISD received the honor for continuing to provide students with a well-rounded education that integrates visual arts curriculum to inspire creativity, build social emotional learning, and connect learners to their community. The district’s program includes student opportunities to compete at the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) each year, as well as art-integrated field experiences, community service, and exhibitions in Abilene and the Big Country.
More than 1,200 Texas school districts were eligible to apply with TAEA for the District of Distinction designation this year. Each district submitted documentation according to a 14-point rubric showing their work in visual arts education in 2022-23. Only 68 districts in Texas met TAEA’s rigorous, data-backed criteria and will receive the outstanding District of Distinction honor in 2023.
TAEA is the largest state professional organization for art educators in the United States and the leading advocate for the visual arts in Texas. The organization’s mission is to promote quality visual arts education through leadership, advocacy, service, and professional development. This is the fifth year that TAEA is honoring Districts of Distinction for meeting advanced arts education criteria. Visit www.taea.org or find TAEA on Facebook or Twitter to learn more.