Alvin Independent School District has been honored with the national distinction of being named a Premiere Community for Theatre Education for its outstanding commitment in the field. The Educational Theatre Association (EdTA) recognizes individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide theatre access and education to all students.

In January, over 1,026 districts were eligible to apply for the inaugural Texas Thespians Premiere Communities for Theatre Education Award, and Alvin ISD was named as one of only nine districts to receive this outstanding honor. Having been recognized with this award by the state chapter, Alvin ISD became eligible for the national distinction from EdTA by answering detailed questions about funding, teacher development and evaluation, theatre class curriculum and participation, instruction time, facilities, and support for the theatre program. Responses were verified with official documentation and reviewed by the Educational Theatre Association. National distinctions are valid from 2022-2025.

“This unique distinction highlights the incredible work made by our students and teachers that our community has come to know and love,” said Lisa Savage, Director of Fine Arts for Alvin ISD. “The impact of this award means that Alvin ISD is being seen and validated as a leader in theatre education, both in the state of Texas and nationally.”

Research affirms the educational and social-emotional benefits of participating in school theatre. In one study, at-risk middle school students who engaged in an after-school musical theatre program demonstrated improved confidence, creativity, resiliency, responsibility, collaboration, and sense of community. Another study found that students who received drama-based instruction made better connections to the curricular content. 95% of school administrators believe that theatre experiences improve students’ overall academic skills.

“EdTA’s vision is that every student will have access to theatre education taught by qualified educators as part of a well-rounded education,” said EdTA Chief Content Officer Allison Dolan. “We’re proud to honor Alvin ISD for helping to achieve that vision.”

Troupe #2955 relies on community partnerships in many ways. Every November, the district has specific goals in terms of community service projects: our theatre teachers are often at the forefront of making these events happen, whether it is collecting canned goods for our local food pantry or performing for participants of The Gathering Place, a non-profit 501c3 which serves Brazoria County families affected by dementia and provides education about prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. 

We also participate in providing programming during our Thespian meetings, which have included guest speakers and collaborations with other theatre troupes (Dawson HS #8922). Usually, our Troupe meetings occur monthly and feature a mix of socializing, learning, and performing for our peers!

Additionally, we are pursuing the Texas Thespians Honor Troupe designation this year, and we have learned a lot in the Leadership Academy!