MISSION, TEXAS – The Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) has named Mission Consolidated Independent School District (Mission CISD) a 2025 District of Distinction—an honor awarded to only 109 school districts across the state.
The prestigious award recognizes school districts that demonstrate a deep commitment to visual arts education as a vital component of the overall curriculum. The recognition highlights Mission CISD’s success in integrating visual arts into core instruction, supporting student creativity and social-emotional learning, and building strong connections between schools and the community through the arts.
A Culture That Celebrates Creativity
“This honor acknowledges our commitment to excellence in arts education,” said Carlos R. Garcia, Mission CISD Fine Arts Director. “Our district has successfully met the standards in numerous categories, highlighting the dedication of our art educators and the talent of our students.”
Garcia emphasized that the award reflects the district’s strong support for creativity and innovation. “This really shows the hard work, dedication, and flexibility of our art teachers. Even in challenging times, they have continued to deliver high-quality, comprehensive art education to our students,” he said.
Recognizing Outstanding Educators
Mission CISD proudly celebrates the Visual Arts team whose hard work and passion contributed to this achievement. Their efforts ensure that every student has access to meaningful and engaging artistic experiences:
- • Frances Alanis – Rafael Cantu Junior High
- • Jennifer Ayala – Mission Junior High
- • Sylvia Salinas- (retired) Mission Junior High
- • Roxanne Borrego – K. White Junior High
- • Michala Burton – Alton Memorial Junior High
- • Rebecca Guerra Rivera- Mission Veterans Memorial High School
- • Maria Guerra-Mission Veterans Memorial High School
- • Anakaren Suarez-Mendiola – Veterans Memorial High School
- • Marisol Karam- Mission High School
- • Myrea Peña- Mission High School
- • Elizardo Torres – Mission High School
- • Lourdes Acuna – Mission Collegiate High School
A Vision for the Future of Arts in Education
The District of Distinction award reflects Mission CISD’s vision of educating the whole child—where academics, arts, and social-emotional growth are interconnected. As the district looks ahead, it remains focused on encouraging students’ artistic talents and enriching the community through the power of visual arts.
Congratulations to the Mission CISD Visual Arts Department on this outstanding accomplishment!