TEMPLE, Texas — The Temple Independent School District and Temple High School Theatre Arts programs have both been recognized with Exemplary Designations as part of the Texas Educational Theatre Association’s (TxETA) 2026 Award of Distinction. The award recognizes individual schools and districts that are making outstanding contributions to raising standards for theatre education through achievement, curation of resources, diversity, and advocacy for theatre arts.
Temple ISD was named an Exemplary District by TxETA for the second year in a row. Temple High School earned Exemplary Campus status for the first time. Exemplary recognition is the highest designation a district or individual school can receive for K-12 theatre programs through the District of Distinction program. To achieve this status, schools must annually submit a detailed application demonstrating their dedication to theatre through multiple avenues. Points are awarded based on a range of criteria, including:
- Quality and quantity of theatrical performances
- A robust play library and access to acting spaces
- Community and administrative support for theatre programs
- Student involvement in University Interscholastic League (UIL) contests
- Participation in Theatrical Design competitions
- Theatre technology
Temple ISD and Temple High School’s recognition at the Exemplary tier reflects its excellence across these categories and its dedication to advancing the arts in education. The Award of Distinction is a tiered honor, with levels ranging from Recognized to Exemplary.
“Receiving the TxETA District of Distinction honor for a second consecutive year reflects the incredible work happening in our theatre programs every day,” said Catrina Lotspeich, Director of Fine Arts for Temple ISD. “We are especially proud that Temple High School was also recognized as an Exemplary Campus this year. Theatre gives students opportunities to build confidence, collaborate with others, think creatively, and develop skills that will serve them well beyond the stage. These recognitions celebrate the dedication of our students, educators, administrators, parents, and community who support the arts.”
In TxETA’s announcement, the organization says this achievement reflects the ongoing passion and hard work of the theatre educators, students, and supporters who ensure that the performing arts remain a vital and thriving part of school culture. TxETA aims to support, promote, and expand educational theatre at all levels by providing educational opportunities, building a network of resources and support, and creating a forum for establishing standards, programs, and projects to celebrate the importance of theatre.
"We applaud Temple High School and Temple 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.
Both Temple ISD and Temple High School’s Theatre Arts programs will officially receive their awards during a ceremony at TxETA’s annual TheatreFest conference in Galveston in October of 2026. For more information on the TxETA recognition program, visit the TxETA website and the following link: https://www.txeta.com/awards#AwardsofDistinction. Temple ISD’s music programs and visual arts program have also been recognized as a Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation and a District of Distinction by the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA).