Irving ISD has been named a winner of the District of Distinction Award by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) for the second year in a row. The award honors districts that advocate for and integrate visual arts curriculum to provide a well-rounded education that fosters creativity and social-emotional learning.
Irving ISD is among 94 districts recognized this year, placing it in the top 5.5 percent of Texas school districts.
Superintendent of Schools Magda A. Hernández expressed pride in the district's achievements, stating, “I am so proud of the accomplishments of our Irving ISD student artists and their teachers. I have seen firsthand how talented these students are, and to see their gifts recognized at the state level is truly a proud moment for me. A well-rounded education inclusive of the arts yields many benefits, and as a district, we will continue to be advocates.”
This year marks the fifth time TAEA has honored districts meeting rigorous criteria based on data. For the 2024 award, over 1,200 districts were eligible to apply. Each district provided documentation showing compliance with a 14-point rubric over the 2023-2024 school year, which assessed participation in events like the Visual Art Scholastic Event (VASE), Junior VASE, and the Texas Elementary Art Meet (TEAM). The evaluation also considered field experiences, community service, and community exhibitions.
Irving ISD students excelled in these contests, earning a VASE Gold Seal Award, five Jr. VASE Platinum Medal Awards, and a Top of TEAM Award. Student artwork is also displayed at the Irving Arts Center gallery during the holidays and in the spring.
Nealy Holley, Chair of the Visual Art Administrators of Texas, praised the district’s commitment, stating, “Irving 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.”
TAEA, the largest state professional organization for art educators in the U.S., promotes quality visual arts education through leadership, advocacy, service, and professional development. Irving ISD and other award winners will be honored at the TAEA Fall Conference on Friday, November 15, in Galveston.
