The Education & Community Engagement Department at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Van Wezel Foundation has announced the Appleton Endowment Teacher of the Year Award, celebrating excellence in arts education and honoring individuals who have promoted and demonstrated their skills in the area of arts integration. This award is made possible through a Legacy Gift to the Van Wezel Foundation from Louise Appleton.

Application Requirements are as follows: be an exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled pre-kindergarten through grade 12 teacher currently teaching in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, or Desoto County; intention to maintain active teaching status through the current and following school year; incorporate effective and innovative arts integration methods or strategies in conjunction with the classroom curriculum; inspire students of all backgrounds to develop art skills and an appreciation for the arts; have the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues; and play an active role in the school and community, and be poised, articulate and have good communication skills.

The 1st Prize winner receives recognition at and two tickets to Van Wezel Foundation Gala, $1,500 for attendance at National Professional Development Opportunity for Arts Integration (i.e. Kennedy Center’s Arts Integration Conference or VSA Intersections), $1,000 for Arts Integration Project in coordination with Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and $500 for classroom supplies for Arts Integration instruction in the classroom. 2nd and 3rd prize will receive comparable awards as well. The deadline for application is January 15. Results will be announced by February 1.

Appleton Endowment Teacher of the Year Award Application