Spring Independent School District has earned its first-ever districtwide distinction for theatre education, receiving the Texas Thespians Premier Communities for Theatre Education Award from the Texas Thespians Educational Theatre Association—one of the governing bodies for theatre education in Texas. Spring ISD is one of only 21 districts statewide to receive this prestigious recognition.

The award honors school districts that provide theatre programs with the resources and support needed to exceed standard expectations, as rooted in the Educational Theatre Association’s Opportunity to Learn Standards, alignment with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for Fine Arts, and active support of International Thespian Society (ITS) Troupe involvement.

“I am incredibly proud of our entire Performing and Visual Arts team for their dedication and commitment to our students,” said David Tijerina-Landgrebe, Spring ISD’s Director of Performing and Visual Arts. “While Spring ISD has long excelled in music and visual arts, this year we placed a renewed focus on strengthening Theatre and Dance across the district. Our goal is for all PVA programs to earn A or B ratings, and this recognition shows the progress we are making.”

Spring ISD qualified for this recognition for the first time largely due to the strengthening of middle school theatre programs and the reinstatement of the theatre program at Wells Middle School this year. This milestone reflects significant districtwide growth, and opens the door to expanded opportunities for theatre students and educators. 

“Our Arts Integration Coordinator, Johnny Williams, played an instrumental role in leading and supporting the submission process for this statewide award,” added Tijerina-Landgrebe. “This achievement represents a true team effort and a strong commitment to strengthening theatre education across all grade levels.  

While districtwide recognition reflects program quality and access, the most powerful outcomes are seen in students who are building confidence, skills and future opportunities through theatre. 

“Being part of the theatre program at Spring High School taught me strong time management, discipline, and creative problem solving,” said Abeer Siddiqui, a student at Carl Wunsche Sr. High School who participates in the theatre program at Spring High School. “Theatre helped me earn my teachers’ trust as they see how I balance a demanding schedule. Most importantly, it has opened doors for my college life by creating scholarship opportunities that allow me to pursue a medical pathway in college while continuing my love for the arts. Theatre hasn’t taken away from my academics—it has strengthened them and expanded my future career goals.”

Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar emphasized that the recognition reflects both strong culture and shared responsibility across the district.

“This is a historic milestone for Spring ISD and a powerful signal that we are entering a new era of excellence,” said Cuellar. “I am most proud of our students and our Performing and Visual Arts team, and of the urgency we are bringing to both academic achievement and arts education. This recognition confirms that we are moving this district forward with purpose and accountability.”

About Texas Thespians

Texas Thespians, an affiliate chapter of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA), is the largest chapter in the nation. The Texas Thespians chapter provides local, state, and regional support for adult members, Thespians, and Junior Thespians. With over 600 troupes, Texas Thespians represent over 16,000 middle school and high school students. Texas Thespians, named an EdTA Gold Honor Chapter, offers educational festivals, workshops, and competitions for students, as well as conferences and professional development for teachers and administrators. As an affiliate of the International Thespian Society, Texas Thespians follows the national model for promoting excellence in theatre education and student achievement. For more information about Texas Thespians, please visit www.texasthespians.org.