Schools Of Distinction
Art, design, and media education are central to a comprehensive education. Participation in these courses uniquely affords students creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills.
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Along with social and emotional skills, students involved in art, design, and media programs are well-prepared for college, career, and citizenship. As such, it is important to recognize when excellent school programs in art, design, and media education provide students these critical skills. The Illinois Art Education Association seeks to honor this programmatic and professional excellence where it occurs in Illinois schools.
The Schools of Distinction Program recognizes school art, media, & design programs that demonstrate excellence in the following areas:
- curriculum and assessment
- authentic learning
- showcasing student learning
- connected communities
- leadership and advocacy
- professional development and training
These areas, outlined in detail below, reflect the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards (IPTS). Alignment between the Schools of Distinction Criteria and the IPTS are highlighted in the criteria. Embedded within the criteria are the principles of equity, cultural responsiveness, critical multiculturalism, and inclusion.
About the Application Process
The IAEA accepts applications for recognition as a School of Distinction annually between January 1st and June 30th. Applications are reviewed in July with notifications sent out in August. For questions about the Schools of Distinction program or this application process, please contact [email protected]
The 2024 application Process is now open! The deadline to apply is June 30th.
Application Resources:
Application Documents
2022-2024 Awardee Status
Washington Community High School
Educators: Margaret Kuchan,Jayme Banzhoff, John Clifford Principal: Ms. Karen Stevens
Aurora Christian High School
Educators: Grahame Wilkin and Jacquie Sanders Principal: Dr. Natalie Henderson
Lemont High School
Eduators: Ryan Hennebry, Dave Nommensen, Megan Idell, and Shannon Jeglinski Principal: Mr. Eric Michaelsen
Evergreen Park Community High School
Educators: Libby McArthur & Tom Minarik Principal: Mr. Bill Sanderson
Lake Zurich High School
Educators: Kristen LaJeunesse Roach and Matthew Winkelman Principal: Ms. Erin DeLuga
2021-2023 Awardee Status
Oswego High School
Educators: Michael Skura, Aaron Kolkay, Dan Whipple, Jennifer Nagle | Principal: Chris Grays
Oswego East High School
Educators: Heather Stanich, Lauren Schmidt, Laura Cavanaugh, Lisa Cook | Principal: Laura Bankowski
Downers Grove North High School
Educators: Marty Voelker, Robyn Bican, Amy Bernard, Josh Hoering | Principal: Courtney DeMent
Hinsdale Middle School
Educator: Theresa McGee | Principal: Ruben Peña
Glenn Westlake Middle School
Educator: Alicia York | Principal: Scott Stehlik
2020-2023 Awardee Status
Washington Community High School
Educators: Jack Clifford, Jayme Banzhoff and Margaret Kuchan | Principal: Mrs. Stevens
Metea Valley High School
Educators: Karen Popovich, Irene LaPapa, Karly Olson, Katie Novorolsky, Ashley Kasher, and Don Devany | Principal: Dr. Echols
Batavia High School
Educators: Josh Casburn, Jennifer Carpenter, Jennifer Melendez, Andrea Schindlbeck, Kathleen Tieri-Ton, Andrea Schindlbeck, and Dawn Zalkus | Principal: Dr. Smith
Henry Senachwine High School
Educator: Frank Bush | Principal: Dr. Hill
Still Middle School
Educator: Donna Davis | Principal: Dr. Echols
Lexington K-12
Educator: Emma Long-Ingram | Principal: Mrs. Strating
Cobden High School
Educator: Jeremy Crawford | Principal: Mr. Shoemate
Harrisburg High School
Educator: Douglas Robbins | Principal: Mr. Dewar