By Kadey Heidrich
Pasadena ISD Communications
Pasadena ISD has been recognized by the Texas Art Education Association as a District of Distinction for its visual arts program, making it one of only 42 districts from across the state to receive the award.
The district earned the award by meeting or exceeding the requirements set in a 12-point rubric that evaluated the district’s participation in TAEA, exhibitions, collaboration with other content areas and community engagement.
“We are honored to receive this award. This recognition would not be possible were it not for all of the hardworking, dedicated art teachers throughout our district,” said Shannon Raygoza, visual art curriculum specialist.
This year’s rubric also examined the responses of districts to challenges brought on by COVID-19 and how well they shifted to online instruction. Schools throughout Pasadena ISD adapted to the new learning environment by hosting virtual field trips to popular museums and exhibits, teaching virtual lessons and competing in contests.
“We were impressed and proud of [Pasadena ISD’s] level of participation in visual art learning experiences at all grade levels despite the many educational challenges [they] faced this past spring,” wrote Stacia Gower, TAEA Supervision/Administration Chair, in a letter notifying the district of its selection.
Pasadena ISD will be presented with the award during TAEA’s Fall Virtual Conference, November 21-22.