‘Park Cities People’ Applauds
The winners of this year’s HP Arts awards, who are working to enrich the lives of students both inside and outside the classroom. HP Arts, which is supported by La Fiesta de las Seis Banderas, funds and encourages arts enrichment and arts education at every grade level in all eight HPISD schools.
Sheri Rosen is the winner of the HP Arts Advocate award, which recognizes a member of the community who champions the arts. Rosen was invaluable during her time on the HP Arts board, serving for two years as its treasurer. She was instrumental in starting booster clubs for both Raider Drama and HP Scots Theatre. Rosen committed herself to HP’s band and theater booster clubs while her children were in school, and she has continued to make herself available to HP Arts and both programs since their graduation.
James Jenkins, digital media and broadcasting teacher at Highland Park Middle School, is the recipient of the Arts in Education award, which recognizes a teacher not in the fine arts who is using the arts to enrich their students’ education. Jenkins inspires students by blending technical skills with artistic storytelling and design. By producing HPMS’ weekly broadcast, Jenkins’ students reach the entire school community and gain experience in visual composition, sound design, and narrative, all approached with an artistic lens. Jenkins’ dedication to integrating art into technology has had a lasting impact on students and colleagues, and has cultivated an appreciation for the arts across HPMS.
Hannah Crowley, music teacher at Boone Elementary School, has been honored as Fine Arts Teacher of the Year. The Fine Arts Teacher of the Year is recognized for their creativity and innovation, their work guiding all students — regardless of ability — to achieve, and their leadership and excellence in teaching. Crowley received a staggering number of nominations for the award. Parents said that she makes personal connections with each of her students, even singing their names as they walk through the doors of the music room. She makes students feel seen, valued and cared for, and brings joy to her campus. Crowley’s class is the highlight of the week for many students, and a place where they feel successful while falling in love with music.
