Schools Of Distinction
Join us to learn more about Schools of Distinction
Thursday, January 28th
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.
Jump to 2020-21 Award Winners | Jump to Application
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 schools 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.
Current Awardees

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
About the Application Process

The IAEA accepts applications for recognition as a School of Distinction annually between January 1st and June 1st. Applications are reviewed between June and July with notifications sent out in August. For questions about the Schools of Distinction program or this application process, please contact [email protected]
Application Form (make a copy)
**Application Example Coming Soon!**
Deadline to Apply is June 1st 2021