The Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) has announced the winners of the 2024 District of Distinction Award winners, and we’re thrilled to share that Garland ISD is among the honored districts! This award recognizes school districts that offer a well-rounded education by integrating a visual arts curriculum, inspiring creativity, and fostering social-emotional learning that connects students to their communities and beyond. This year, GISD earned the honor of being one of the state’s top 5.5 percent of districts.
TAEA is a key advocate for visual arts in Texas. It has a history of celebrating outstanding members for their contributions to classrooms and districts. This year marks the fifth time TAEA is honoring districts that meet its rigorous criteria.
Out of over 1,200 eligible districts, only 94, including Garland ISD, met the high standards set by TAEA, placing them in the top 5.5 percent for art education in the state. Each district had to submit documentation showing they met the 14-point rubric requirements over the 2023-2024 school year.
Nealy Holley, Chair of the Visual Art Administrators of Texas, a division of TAEA, said, “Garland ISD has set a high standard for visual arts advocacy, integrated visual arts curriculum, encouraged creativity, community participation, and student growth. 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.”
The 94 honored districts, including Garland ISD, will be celebrated at the TAEA Administration & Supervision Division meeting and General Session during the TAEA Fall Conference General Assembly on Friday, November 15, 2024.
Congratulations to Garland ISD and all the other districts for this incredible achievement!
About the TAEA District of Distinction Award
The District of Distinction Award is now in its sixth year and aims to see even more participation in the 2024-2025 school year. Overseen by the Visual Art Administrators of Texas, a division of TAEA, the award honors school districts that lead the way in visual arts. TAEA recognizes districts with outstanding leadership in promoting the arts within their communities and through programs like VASE, Junior VASE, and TEAM. They also consider field experiences, community service, and exhibitions as part of their rigorous evaluation.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.