GGUSD Administrators Receive Top Awards for Arts Education

• Tuesday, February 14, 2023

The Orange County Music and Arts Administrators recognized two Garden Grove Unified School District (GGUSD) administrators for making a difference in the lives of students through leadership in arts education during a special awards ceremony at Segerstrom Center for the Arts on February 8.

Awards were presented to Stacy Harris, Coordinator of GGUSD’s Visual and Performing Arts department as well as Eisenhower Elementary School Principal Beth Cusimano. The cover art of the awards ceremony program titled “Lillies Afloat” was created by La Quinta High School student, Breanna Prum under the instruction of art teacher Annie Ta. Garden Grove High School students Caitlin Echavarria and Abby Valdivia choreographed and performed a featured dance performance under the direction of their teacher, Chrissie Leong.  

GGUSD educators who were recognized for being nominated include La Quinta High School Teacher Carmel Gabriel, Pacifica High School Teacher David Joseph, Bell Intermediate Teacher Julie Lee, Rancho Alamitos High School Teacher Gene Martin, Elementary Instrumental Music Teacher Tim Mathiesen, Pacifica High School Teacher Joe Miller, and Pacifica High School Teacher Brie Velton.  

“GGUSD places a high priority on arts education because of its many positive benefits for students, both academically and social-emotionally,” said Board of Education Trustee Bob Harden. “We are proud that our administrators and educators soar as leaders in this area and are delivering enriching arts experiences for our students.”

At GGUSD, Visual and Performing Arts programs are offered at all schools. Every transitional kindergarten through sixth grade student receives weekly music instruction and 7-12 enrollment in VAPA courses, including dance, music, theatre, and visual art, exceeds the state average. Beyond the robust opportunities for students during the curricular day, GGUSD students have opportunities to participate beyond the school day in Disney Musicals in Schools productions; ukulele and mariachi ensembles; and a variety of other extracurricular activities in the arts.

The Orange County Music and Arts Educator Awards are presented annually to teachers and administrators who guide and direct arts programs at schools throughout the county including instrumental and choral music, theater, visual arts, and dance.

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