In a special announcement during the October meeting of the Spring ISD Board of Trustees, Superintendent Dr. Rodney E. Watson learned that he had been selected by the Texas Music Educators Association to receive the designation of TMEA Distinguished Administrator.
“The TMEA Executive Board created this designation to honor upper-level school administrators who have been instrumental in preserving quality music education programs on their campuses and in their districts,” wrote TMEA Executive Director Robert Floyd in a letter announcing the recognition. “We wholeheartedly believe that Texas is home to the best music educators and best music programs in the nation, and we are well aware that their success would not be possible without the strong support of administrators like you.”
The surprise announcement was made during Tuesday’s board meeting by Spring ISD Director of Performing and Visual Arts Dr. Joe Clark, who spoke of the strong collaborative spirit driving arts education in Spring ISD. He also thanked the superintendent personally for his support of the district’s recently launched arts integration initiative, which takes advantage of the many academic and developmental benefits associated with arts education by incorporating the arts and arts-related topics into core subject areas.
“This is fantastic news,” said Clark of the Distinguished Administrator designation. “I’m telling you, our Performing and Visual Arts Department, with the superintendent’s support, is changing the lives of thousands of students for the better. It’s already happening, and we appreciate the support and recognition from the TMEA in honor of Dr. Watson’s commitment to music and the arts as a vital part of a well-rounded education.”
Watson himself, who studied music education – along with psychology – as an undergraduate in college, said that he’s honored by the award, and feels energized by the continued support of the Spring community on behalf of the arts.
“The arts and arts education have always been close to my heart,” Watson said, “and Spring ISD is a district where the performing and visual arts have long been part of the fabric of campus life. We take a lot of pride in that as a district, and I’m happy that we’ve been able to support not just the status quo, but new ideas and new initiatives to strengthen what we offer to our students.”
Watson was also quick to emphasize the many district team members who make standout arts education possible and, in turn, support him in his role as superintendent.
“It takes talented, caring and dedicated performing and visual arts teachers and administrators to make all of this happen,” Watson said, “and I’m thankful for all they do on behalf of students.”