Richardson Independent School District is among the top eight percent of the 1,200 eligible districts in the state earning the District of Distinction Award by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA), and is only one of 109 to receive the honor this year.
TAEA awards the honor as a District of Distinction to districts leading the way in the visual arts and emphasizing 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.
“This recognition reflects the incredible dedication of our visual art educators and the unwavering support from you and our RISD leadership team,” says Myron Stennett, RISD Director of Visual Arts PK12.
The Visual Art Administrators of Texas, a division of TAEA, recognizes districts with outstanding leadership in promoting the arts in their district and community.
“Richardson ISD has set a high standard for visual arts advocacy, integrated visual arts curriculum, encouraged creativity, community participation and student growth,” said Nealy Holley, Chair of the Visual Art Administrators of Texas, a 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.”
TAEA follows a rigorous rubric for the award that takes into account promotion of the arts in the district and community, active participation in areas such as VASE, Junior VASE, and TEAM as well as field experiences, community service, and community exhibition opportunities.
RISD will be honored at the TAEA District of Distinction Awards Ceremony during the TAEA Fall Conference on Friday, November 21, 2025 in Round Rock.
Learn more about our award-winning fine arts programs and follow RISD Fine Arts on social media @Artk12RISD.
About TAEA:
TAEA is the largest state professional organization for art educators in the United States. It is the mission of TAEA to promote quality visual arts education through leadership, advocacy, service, and professional development.
