Friends of East County Arts, Inc. (Friends), a philanthropic organization that funds visual and performing arts (VAPA) educational programs in East San Diego County, celebrated four recipients of the 2024 VAPA Teacher of the Year Awards, at a recent luncheon held at the new Lakeside Library. Two middle school and two high school educators were announced at this event.

The following teachers were awarded $1,500 for their work in the visual and performing arts programs at their schools:

* Katie Pipes from Helix High School in La Mesa teaches beginning,
intermediate and advanced dance.
* Daynah Robledo from Lakeside Middle School teaches general, 3-D,
advanced and studio visual art.
* Kasey Viani from Los Coches Creek Middle School in El Cajon teaches
musical and technical theatre, show choir, dance and video production.
* Heather Rust from Granite Hills High School in El Cajon teaches
photography and digital arts.

Each of these teachers went through a selection process that focused on:

* Clear lesson plans with clear instruction
* Deep understanding of the subject matter
* Vibrant and organized environment for learning
* Engaged students
* Effective classroom management and teaching strategies

Dr. Karen Childress-Evans, vice president-elect of “Friends”, emphasized how important
the work of this organization is to the maintenance and growth of visual and performing arts education in our schools. “With budget cuts, increased instructional responsibilities, and a current plethora of pressures put on educators, it is essential that outside organizations step up and try to help fill in financial gaps as much as possible especially in the areas of visual and performing arts.”

This last year, “Friends” funded almost $30,000 in grants and honoraria to schools, teachers, and supporting organizations in East San Diego County to help increase student access to VAPA programs.

For more information about upcoming events, membership forms, or to donate, visit: https://www.friendsofecarts.org.