Wylie High Theatre Arts Program Earns Exemplary Status in Texas Educational Theatre Association’s Award of Distinction

Congratulations to Wylie High School for achieving the Exemplary status in the 2026 Texas Educational Theatre Association’s Award of Distinction for the fourth year in a row! 

One of only 31 schools in the entire state of Texas to earn this prestigious status, the award recognizes individual schools that make outstanding contributions to raising standards in theatre education through achievement, resource curation, diversity, and advocacy for theatre arts.

Earning Exemplary Status is the highest level of the award’s tiered system, which ranges from Recognized to Exemplary. 

“Wylie Theatre is thrilled to be recognized again for the work our students have been doing for four years,” WHS Theatre Director Polly Harrison said. “Wylie ISD is a great place for artists and a great place to nurture young theatrical students.”

This prestigious recognition highlights schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to fostering theatre education and participation in their communities. Wylie High School and its representatives will be recognized at an Awards Ceremony during TxETA’s annual TheatreFest conference in Galveston at Moody Gardens this fall.

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 

Wylie High’s recognition at the Exemplary tier reflects its excellence across these categories and its dedication to advancing the arts in education. 

"We applaud Wylie High School for their remarkable efforts in promoting theatre arts. Their program serves as a model of creativity, community, and educational excellence,” Travis Springfield, past president of the Texas Educational Theatre Association, said.

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.

For more information, visit the TxETA website.