Spring ISD’s Visual Arts Program Earns Statewide Distinction for 7th Consecutive Year
In a remarkable show of consistency and excellence, Spring Independent School District (Spring ISD) has been named a 2024–2025 District of Distinction by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA), marking the seventh year in a row the district has received this prestigious honor. The announcement places Spring ISD among the top 1.3% of all visual arts programs in Texas—an achievement earned by only 16 school districts across the state.
With more than 1,200 public school districts and educational institutions eligible to apply, the award recognizes a district’s commitment to providing a robust, comprehensive visual arts curriculum at all grade levels. This distinction honors not only the technical skills and creative expression developed in the classroom, but also a district’s ability to engage students in meaningful, community-centered art experiences.
“Being one of only 16 districts statewide to achieve this milestone is truly a privilege,” said David Tijerina-Landgrebe, Interim Director of Performing & Visual Arts. “Maintaining this recognition for seven consecutive years reflects the exceptional dedication of our visual and performing arts educators, the talent and creativity of our students, and our district’s steadfast commitment to excellence in arts education.”
To earn the District of Distinction Award, schools must meet rigorous criteria established by the TAEA, including student participation in state-level art programs like the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE), Junior VASE, and the Texas Elementary Art Meet. The evaluation also includes how districts integrate field experiences, art exhibitions, and community service into their curriculum—reinforcing the connection between student creativity and civic engagement.
“Spring ISD continues to set the bar high for visual arts education—fostering creativity, community engagement, and student growth through a strong, well-integrated curriculum,” said Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar. “This recognition is a true reflection of our visual art educators’ talent, dedication, and commitment to providing meaningful, high-quality art experiences for all students.”
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One of those educators is Chelsi Johnson, visual arts teacher at Link Elementary and a district visual arts facilitator. Johnson, who joined Spring ISD in 2022, says the award reflects both passion and perseverance.
“This achievement shows how passionate and dedicated our visual arts teachers are, as well as how unbelievably talented our students are,” said Johnson. “The requirements are rigorous and place extra work on our department to ensure we’re competing at a high level, but everyone does it because we know what it means to put our artists’ work in front of audiences. This accomplishment means we are taking our roles as arts advocates seriously and helping grow the next generation of creatives.”
This year, Spring ISD’s visual arts programming was evaluated not just for its in-class offerings but for its ability to impact student lives beyond the school walls. Whether it’s a third grader discovering watercolor techniques, a high schooler earning a top score at VASE, or an entire campus participating in a community art exhibition, Spring ISD’s visual arts programming continues to shape young minds—and hearts—through creative expression.
The district will be officially recognized at the 2025 TAEA Fall Conference, where it will be celebrated alongside other top-performing districts from across Texas.
For families, educators, and community members in the greater Spring, TX area, this award is yet another reason to take pride in the district’s holistic approach to education—one that nurtures not just academic success, but artistic voice and community connection.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
