Friends of East County Arts, Inc., a philanthropic organization that funds visual and performing arts educational programs in East County, celebrated four recipients of the 2024 VAPA Teacher of the Year Awards at a luncheon at the new Lakeside Library on April 24. Two middle school and two high school educators were awarded $1,5000 for their outstanding work in the visual and performing arts at their schools.
Lakeside Middle School’s Daynah Robledo teaches general, 3-D, advanced and studio visual art. Los Coches Creek Middle School in El Cajon Kasey Viani teaches musical and technical theatre, show choir, dance, and video production. Helix High School in La Mesa Katie Pipes teaches beginning, intermediate, and advanced dance. Granite Hills High School in El Cajon Heather Rust teaches photography and digital arts.
Friends vice president elect Dr. Karen Children-Evans said it is the work of Friends is to the maintenance and growth of visual performing arts education in school is extremely important.
“With budget cuts, increased instructional responsibilities, and a current plethora of pressures put on educators, it is essential that outside organizations step up and try to fill in financial gaps as much as possible especially in the areas of visual and performing arts,” she said in a statement.
Each recipient went through a rigorous selection process focused on clear lesson plans with clear instruction, a deep understanding of the subject matter, a vibrant and organized environment for learning, engaged students, and effective classroom management and teaching strategies.
This last year, Friends funded almost $30,000 in grants and honoraria to schools, teachers, and supporting organizations in East San Diego County to help increase student access to VAPA programs. For more information about upcoming events, membership forms, or to donate, please visit www.friendsofecarts.org.
