Spring Branch ISD (SBISD) continues to set the standard for excellence in visual arts, earning recognition as a Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) District of Distinction for the sixth consecutive year.
SBISD is one of only 109 school districts in Texas to receive the prestigious honor for the 2025-2026 school year. More than 1,200 eligible districts were invited to apply.
Presented by the Visual Art Administrators of Texas, a division of TAEA, the District of Distinction designation recognizes school districts that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to high-quality visual arts education.
"We hold this distinction in very high regard because it speaks to the consistency of our programming across the district," said Houston Hayes, SBISD Director of Performing and Fine Arts and Health Fitness. "SBISD is dedicated to providing all students with the best, most innovative, visual art programs possible."
To earn the distinction, districts must meet or exceed a rigorous 14-point rubric evaluating every aspect of a visual arts program, including student learning opportunities, educator engagement, participation in professional organizations, exhibitions, competitions, community partnerships, service learning and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Across SBISD, students experience the arts every day—from exploring creativity in elementary classrooms to showcasing award-winning artwork in regional and state exhibitions.
Through hands-on experiences, collaborations with local organizations and opportunities to share their work with the community, students develop the creative thinking, problem-solving and communication skills that prepare them for success in college, careers and life.
The award also reflects SBISD's belief that the arts are an essential part of a well-rounded education. Whether a student dreams of becoming a professional artist, engineer, entrepreneur or teacher, visual arts help cultivate innovation, resilience and confidence.
For families looking for a school district where creativity is celebrated and Every Child has opportunities to explore their passions, SBISD offers an arts education that is recognized among the very best in Texas.
As SBISD celebrates this sixth consecutive District of Distinction honor, the district remains committed to ensuring every student has access to exceptional visual arts experiences that inspire imagination, foster belonging and empower students to create their future.