For the second year in a row, Ector County ISD received the District of Distinction award from the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA). This is an honor given to school districts that are leading the way in the visual arts, and recognizes outstanding leadership in promoting the arts in their district and community. More than 1,200 districts were eligible to apply for this prestigious honor, with just 59 (or the top 5%) being selected. On November 11, a delegation from ECISD accepted the award during the TAEA Fall Conference.

“We have a really long history of going above and beyond when it comes to fine arts,” said ECISD Executive Director of Fine Arts. Dr. Aaron Hawley. “And that’s all the fine arts. We take great pride in the success we have had as a fine arts department.  

Districts received the honor for providing a well-rounded education that advocates and integrates visual arts curriculum to inspire creativity and build social emotional learning that connect learners to their community and beyond.

“One of the things I take pride in is the creative way our teachers are finding ways to show their artwork,” added Dr. Hawley.

ECISD Students’ strong participation and success in contests like VASE (Visual Arts Scholastic Event) and Junior VASE, taking part in Texas Big Art Day, field experiences like trips to museums, a regular presence on social media platforms, innovative projects like Permian High School’s sculpture garden, or New Tech Odessa’s Little Free Art Gallery, district art shows, and participation in the TASB (Texas Association of School Boards) Art Exhibit and the Texas Capitol Art Exhibit are all criteria that weigh into ECISD’s selection.

“Ector County ISD has set a high standard for visual arts advocacy, integrated visual arts curriculum, encouraged creativity, community participation and student growth,” said Sandra Newton, Chair of the Administration and Supervision Division of TAEA. “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.”