Spring Independent School District has earned the Outstanding District status in the Texas Educational Theatre Association’s (TxETA) 2026 Award of Distinction Program, a prestigious recognition that honors schools and districts demonstrating exceptional commitment to theatre education and participation.

The Award of Distinction recognizes schools and districts that make outstanding contributions to advancing theatre education through achievement, resource development, diversity and advocacy for theatre arts.

Spring ISD will be recognized during TxETA’s annual TheatreFest conference and awards ceremony Oct. 2 at Moody Gardens in Galveston.

“We applaud Spring ISD for their remarkable efforts in promoting theatre arts. Their program serves as a model of creativity, community, and educational excellence,” said Travis Springfield, Past President of the Texas Educational Theatre Association. 

To earn Outstanding District status, schools must submit a detailed annual application demonstrating their commitment to theatre education across multiple areas. Points are awarded based on a variety of criteria, including the quality and quantity of theatrical performances, access to acting spaces and play libraries, community and administrative support, student participation in University Interscholastic League (UIL) contests, involvement in theatrical design competitions and theatre technology opportunities. 

Spring ISD’s recognition at the Outstanding District level reflects excellence across these categories and a continued dedication to advancing the arts in education. The Award of Distinction is a tiered honor, with recognition levels ranging from Recognized to Exemplary.

“Congratulations to our Performing and Visual Arts team, our theatre directors, students, and families on this outstanding recognition,” Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar said. “We are incredibly proud to receive only the second statewide theatre distinction in district history. This achievement highlights the exceptional opportunities available to our students and the dedication of the educators who work every day to help them discover their talents, find their voice, and shine both on and off the stage.” 

David Tijerina-Landgrebe, Spring ISD’s director of performing and visual arts, said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of theatre educators across the district.

“This is only the second statewide theatre award our district has received,” Tijerina-Landgrebe said. “I am incredibly grateful to our theatre directors, students and supporters for their dedication to the performing arts. A special thank you goes to Johnny Williams for his leadership and commitment. He has made an incredible impact during his first year as our assistant director.”

TxETA supports, promotes and expands educational theatre by providing professional learning opportunities, building networks of support and advocating for theatre programs at all levels. For more information, visit the TxETA website: https://www.txeta.com/awards#AwardsofDistinction