Texas City ISD has once again been recognized among the state’s top school districts for visual arts education, earning the 2026 District of Distinction Award from the Texas Art Education Association.

TCISD is one of only 127 districts and learning institutions statewide selected for the honor from more than 1,200 eligible organizations. Even more notably, Texas City ISD is one of just 16 school districts that have earned the distinction every year since the award was established eight years ago.

The District of Distinction Award recognizes districts that provide a well-rounded education through visual arts programs that inspire creativity and reach students with a variety of learning needs.

Districts are evaluated using a rigorous rubric based on data and evidence of their visual arts programming. Criteria include participation in programs such as the Visual Arts Scholastic Event, or VASE; Junior VASE; and the Texas Elementary Art Meet, or TEAM. Field experiences, community service and community exhibitions are among the other areas considered.

Texas City ISD provides dedicated visual arts classes at La Marque High School, Texas City High School, Blocker Middle School, Giles Middle School and Levi Fry Intermediate School.

The district’s visual arts educators are Ashley Antequera, Alissa Beauchamp, Joan Finn, Stacy Flores, Jennifer Massie, Lola Rios and Amy Williams. The program is led by Fine Arts Director Mary Goldner.

Earning the District of Distinction Award for eight consecutive years reflects the commitment of TCISD’s visual arts educators to providing students with opportunities to create, explore and develop their talents while making the arts an important part of a well-rounded education.

With only 16 districts maintaining the distinction every year since the award began, TCISD continues to demonstrate a sustained commitment to excellence in visual arts education.