Education and community leaders play an important role in creating opportunities for students to explore their interests through visual and performing arts curriculum.
In recognition of their impact in and out of the classroom, the Orange County Music and Arts Administrators — or OCMAA — is seeking nominations for teachers, administrators and community advocates who have made a mark on arts education programs in their school, district or region.
Through its annual awards program, the organization aims to highlight teachers and administrators who go above and beyond in service of vocal, instrumental, dance, visual arts and theater programs on campus.
In addition, OCMAA seeks to recognize community leaders who support district arts programs and help students develop workforce skills through extracurricular arts activities. School staff and community members can submit nominations online starting Sept. 1.
“It is amazing to see the creativity that has been emulated by the leaders in the area of arts education here in Orange County,” said Scott Fitzpatrick, OCDE coordinator of visual and performing arts. “The nominations that came last year demonstrated the shared strength of character of so many amazing people in different areas and roles and responsibilities.”
Administered by the Orange County Department of Education, the OCMAA is a coalition composed of school districts, local organizations, business leaders and parents who work together to provide more inclusive, equitable and accessible arts education for all students. The organization contributes to the development of countywide plans and community collaborations while working directly with district arts directors and programs to assist with local plans.
The 2024 award winners will be announced on Dec. 4 and honored at a reception on Feb. 27 at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The event will feature presentations from district and arts organization leaders, along with student performances.
“Meeting these extraordinary leaders through these countywide awards is truly one of the honors of my job here at the Orange County Department of Education,” Fitzpatrick said. “ I am excited to see this year’s nominees.”
Those interested in submitting nominations can fill out this Google Form and review the requirements. For questions about the Orange County Music and Arts Administrators Awards, contact OCDE Coordinator Scott Fitzpatrick at stfitzpatrick@ocde.us.