Tyler ISD is excited to announce two teachers, Shawna Lynch and Kiara Hawkins, were named award recipients at the 13th Annual Arts in Education Awards hosted by Young Audiences of Northeast Texas.
Theatre teacher Shawna Lynch at Caldwell Arts Academy earned the Arts Teaching Excellence Elementary School award. Lynch shares that she is continuously in awe of what her students can achieve. They inspire and motivate her to bring new ideas to the classroom and find ways to showcase their achievements, helping to cultivate experiences they will never forget.
“I want my students to know that theatre is a place where everyone is welcome, each voice is heard, and they are free to create and share their stories,” Lynch said.
Theatre teacher Kiara Hawkins at Hubbard Middle School was named the Arts Teaching Excellence Middle School award recipient. Hawkins feels that her life has come “full circle” as she now introduces students to theatre at the same age she was when she fell in love with it as a Moore Middle School student.
“Theatre education helps to give students a voice and encourages them to be strong,” Hawkins said. “My classroom is a place for students to learn, grow, and become confident and fearless in pursuing whatever path they take in their future.”
Former Tyler ISD VPA Director George A. Faber was recognized with the Arts in Education ICON award. This award is a tribute to those whose extraordinary contributions transcend traditional boundaries, impacting education and the broader community. This prestigious honor recognizes visionary leaders within educational realms and as a beacon for artistic advocacy in society.
Since 1997, Young Audiences of Northeast Texas has supported arts in education and partnered with educators to bring unique arts experiences to students, teachers, and schools.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.