Northside ISD Theatre Takes Center Stage with Statewide Exemplary Recognition

Long before the curtain rises, countless hours of creativity, collaboration, and dedication bring performances to life—and that commitment is now being recognized as Northside ISD earns Exemplary status in the 2026 Texas Educational Theatre Association (TxETA) Award of Distinction Program. The District is among only 28 in Texas to receive this prestigious honor, highlighting its dedication to advancing excellence in theatre education.

The Texas Educational Theatre Association’s (TxETA) Award of Distinction is a tiered recognition program that honors schools and districts demonstrating excellence in theatre education. Levels range from Recognized to Exemplary, with Exemplary representing the highest level of distinction. The award recognizes programs that excel in areas such as student achievement, quality performances, resources, community support, advocacy, and opportunities for students to grow through the arts.

This recognition is more than an award—it is a celebration of the people who bring Northside ISD theatre programs to life. “This milestone is profoundly significant because it is a direct reflection of a true community effort,” said Elizabeth Sanchez-Lopez, Executive Director of Fine Arts. “Behind this honor are hundreds of passionate students who pour their hearts into every performance, exceptional teachers who mentor them daily, and a community whose continuous support makes our programming possible." From educators who inspire students every day to performers who bring stories to life on stage, this achievement reflects the dedication and collaboration of the entire Northside theatre community.

Earning this level of status is no easy task. The application process is lengthy and requires districts to demonstrate their commitment to theatre education through a variety of criteria. Northside ISD’s Exemplary designation reflects the strength of its programs across the District, including successes in UIL One-Act Play, community involvement, course offerings, staff collaboration, vertical alignment planning, recruitment strategies to increase student enrollment, and student recognitions and achievements with Thespians, said Sara Wetzel, Assistant Director of Fine Arts.

That commitment to excellence is strengthened by the collaboration among Northside’s theatre educators. Teachers across the District support one another, share ideas, and celebrate each other’s successes, creating a culture where programs and students can thrive. “What I’m most proud of isn’t just the awards or accolades—it’s the culture we’ve created,” said Wetzel. “Northside’s theatre teachers genuinely care for one another, collaborate rather than compete, and celebrate each other’s successes because we know that when one program succeeds, our entire theatre family succeeds.”

The impact of theatre reaches far beyond performances. Through the arts, students build confidence, creativity, communication skills, and empathy while learning to collaborate and express themselves in new ways. These experiences benefit them throughout their lives.

For Northside ISD, this recognition is not the final act—it is a celebration of the continued commitment to growing and strengthening theatre education across the District. “By continuing to support theatre and all fine arts programs, Northside ISD invests in the whole child,” said Sanchez-Lopez. “Ensuring that its students do not just graduate with a diploma, but with the creativity to innovate, the empathy to lead, and the resilience to succeed in an ever-changing world. Simply put, it’s the best investment we can make.”

As Northside ISD celebrates this Exemplary designation, the District looks ahead to continuing a tradition of excellence, collaboration, and creativity that allows students to discover their voices and shine on and beyond the stage.