In the upcoming weeks, the Utah State Board of Education will proudly recognize five exemplary educators from across the state with the Sorenson Legacy Award for Excellence in Arts Education. Established in honor of Beverley Taylor Sorenson, a staunch advocate for arts education, these awards celebrate educators who promote the power of the arts in student development.
Beverley Taylor Sorenson dedicated her life to advancing the role of arts education as a means for students to find their voice, engage more deeply in learning, and foster critical thinking. The Sorenson Legacy Awards for Excellence in Arts Education serve as a testament to her legacy, ensuring that her passion for the arts lives on.
The awards highlight the indispensable role of arts education in Utah’s schools and recognize educators who demonstrate excellence in their dedication to incorporating the arts into their teaching practices. This year’s recipients of the Sorenson Legacy Awards for Excellence in Arts Education are as follows:
Elementary Arts Integration, for the Classroom Teacher:
- Rachel Leber, Provo School District
Elementary Arts Instruction, in Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, or Media Arts:
- Charlotte Hawkins, Cedar Ridge Elementary School in Alpine School District (Visual Arts)
- Sherise Longhurst, Ridgecrest Elementary School in Canyons School District (Music)
Secondary Arts Instruction, in Dance, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, or Media Arts:
- Laurie Anderson, Timberline Middle School in Alpine School District (Visual Arts)
- Glen Carpenter, Stansbury Highschool in Tooele School District (Drama)
In recognition of their outstanding achievements, each recipient will receive a $2,000 cash award. Additionally, their respective districts will be granted a $250 cash award to further support their arts programs.
The Utah State Board of Education extends its congratulations to these exceptional educators and expresses gratitude for their unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and excellence in arts education.
