Denton ISD has been named a 2025 District of Distinction by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA), a prestigious recognition that places the district among the top 8 percent of visual arts programs in the state.
 
The award honors districts that provide a well-rounded education by integrating a strong visual arts curriculum that fosters student creativity, supports social-emotional learning, and connects learners to their communities and beyond.
 
“This recognition is a reflection of our extraordinary visual arts educators who go above and beyond to engage students in creative expression and meaningful learning,” said Eddy Russell, Denton ISD Director of Fine Arts. “Our programs don’t just teach art, they provide students with the tools to think critically, express themselves, and contribute to a vibrant culture of creativity in our schools and community.”
 
More than 1,200 school districts and learning institutions across Texas were eligible to apply for the 2025 award. Each applicant submitted documentation demonstrating their achievement across a rigorous 14-point rubric over the 2024–25 school year. Only 109 districts met the standard, earning the honor of District of Distinction.
 
“Denton ISD is proud to be recognized for the outstanding work of our visual arts educators and students,” said Dr. Susannah Holbert O’Bara, Superintendent of Schools. “The arts are essential to our district’s mission to empower lifelong learners and connect them to their local and global communities. This honor reinforces the importance of creative learning as part of a well-rounded education.”
 
According to Nealy Holley, Chair of the Visual Art Administrators of Texas, a division of TAEA, “Denton ISD has set a high standard for visual arts advocacy, integrated curriculum, creativity, community participation, and student growth. 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.”
 
Denton ISD will be recognized at the 2025 TAEA District of Distinction Awards Ceremony during the TAEA Fall Conference on Friday, November 21 in Round Rock, Texas.