Sept. 3, 2021 - For the third year in a row, the Comal Independent School District has received the District of Distinction award by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA), which began offering this honor three years ago.
Only 4 percent of districts in the state earned the distinction this year with 40 receiving the honor. The award recognizes districts which provide a well-rounded education that advocates and integrates visual arts curriculum to inspire creativity and build social emotional learning that connects learners to their community and beyond.
With more than 50 art teachers in elementary, middle and high school campuses, on average, 15,000 students participate in art classes throughout Comal ISD. Elementary campuses have their own art instructors with weekly lessons while middle and high school campuses offer a variety of courses including drawing, painting, sculpting, advanced placement art history and studio art. In addition, student organizations such as the National Art Honor Society and art clubs are available on high school campuses.
“This award is a testament to our art teachers who consistently offer opportunities for students to showcase their talent through various competitions and in area galleries,” said Carla Schumann, the district’s director of fine arts. “These opportunities enhance our program, and we are proud to be named a District of Distinction for three years in a row.”
More than 1,100 districts were eligible to apply for the 2021 award. Each district submitted documentation they met from a 14-point rubric for the 2020-2021 school year. Only 40 districts met the high standard and received the outstanding honor indicating they are in the top 4 percent in art education of districts in the state.
“Comal ISD has set a high standard for visual arts advocacy, integrated visual arts curriculum, encouraged creativity, community participation and student growth,” said Stacia Gower, chair of the administration and supervision division of TAEA. “The past school year, educators faced a great many challenges associated with constantly changing guidelines and instruction procedures as well as participation in contest and visual art events. It is a true testament to our visual art educators’ skill, dedication and flexibility that the quality of their programs continued strong and comprehensive.”
The 40 distinguished districts will be honored at the TAEA Administration & Supervision Division meeting and during the TAEA Fall Conference General Assembly on Friday, Nov. 5.
Congratulations!
-Art students at Davenport High School showed off their recent projects. Pictured from left are Lilly Fuller, 14, Max Harlin, 15, and Kylie Valenta, 16.
-Davenpoort High School art student, Lydianna Bolanos, 16, was working on her sketch of a squid.
-Lydianna Bolanos, 16, an 11th-grade student at Davenport High School.