Wylie East and Wylie High Achieve Highest Theatre Distinction

Congratulations to the Wylie High School and Wylie East High School theatre programs for earning the highest award from the Texas Educational Theatre Association!

The TxETA recently recognized both high schools as Exemplary Campuses for making outstanding contributions to raising the standards for theatre education in the school, district, and state. 

Theatre programs meeting the minimum requirements are awarded one of four designations. While this is only the second year of the Texas Educational Theatre Association Awards of Distinction Program, Wylie High School Theatre is leaving its mark on the theatre community by earning the highest designation in both years.

“Last year, Wylie High School was one of only five schools selected for this honor,” said Polly Harrison, WHS Director of Theatre. “I think our campus received high marks in all categories due to the ongoing commitment to providing excellence in the arts.”

Wylie East High School Theatre achieved the Exemplary Campus designation this year. WEHS Theatre Director Samantha Miller attributes this achievement to not only her students and fellow directors but also to the district.

“Our campus provides a wide range of theatrical opportunities for our students,” Miller said. “All of our programming, from courses taught to technology and resources available, to the amount of shows we produce, were factors in our distinction. We are so humbled to be a part of a program that developed our students into better artists as well as humans.”

Districts are recognized for achievement, growth, and excellence.

“It really wouldn't be possible without the support of Wylie East administration, [Executive Director of Fine Arts] Glenn Lambert's advocacy, and the foundation of excellence set by the district,” Miller said. “Thank you to Wylie ISD and Wylie East administration for all that you do for our fine arts programs. We are incredibly blessed to have your support.”

With this distinction, winners receive a commemorative award and bound certificate, a letter of commendation to the school board and superintendent, and recognition on the Texas Educational Theatre Association media platforms.

“We are proud to join with WEHS Theatre this year as recipients of this honor and hope to expand the Wylie ISD designations to include our junior high departments in years to come!” Harrison said. “I’m very proud of our students, their supportive families, our district, and our community. Excellent educational arts programs do not succeed in a vacuum – student artists need support from many different perspectives to feel successful, and Wylie provides that every time. We are honored to be educating young artists at Wylie High School…..AHMO!”