Two GPS Teachers Earn Statewide Recognition from Arizona Art Education Association
Two GPS Teachers Earn Statewide Recognition from Arizona Art Education Association
Tristan Chavez
GILBERT, Ariz. (November 17, 2025) - Two Gilbert Public Schools (GPS) elementary art educators have been recognized in the state of Arizona for their exceptional contributions to arts education. Kecia Sweeney of Islands Elementary received the Elementary Division Outstanding Art Educator Award, and Tina Rey of Settler’s Point Elementary earned the Outstanding New Professional Art Educator Award, both presented by the Arizona Art Education Association (AAEA).
The AAEA awards educators who have gone above and beyond in their service to the field of art education. The teachers were celebrated at the AAEA Annual State Conference during an awards dinner on Friday, November 14, at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel in Tempe.
“I was just amazed,” said Tina Rey, now in her second year teaching art at Settler’s Point Elementary. “To be nominated by my colleagues and recognized for the joy I bring to my students — it felt incredible. Art gives them a safe space to take risks, try new things, and grow in confidence, and that carries into their learning in other subjects.”
Rey teaches more than 500 students from kindergarten through 6th grade and incorporates hands-on projects such as clay creations and mummy sculptures that connect to classroom lessons in other subjects. Her approach encourages student independence, creative thinking, and problem-solving while providing a structured scope and sequence aligned with state learning objectives and standards.
Kecia Sweeney, in her 27th year of teaching, has dedicated her career to inspiring creativity in students across multiple GPS schools. At Islands Elementary and Highland Park Elementary, she engages approximately 700 students each year, guiding them through projects ranging from plaster masks and clay dragon eyes to metalwork inspired by Native American symbols.
“I love seeing students think outside the box and express themselves freely,” said Sweeney. “Art gives every child an equal opportunity to explore their creativity. This award is really a testament to the hard work of our students and the creative environment we strive for at every school.”
At all 26 GPS elementary schools across Gilbert and Mesa, every student, kindergarten through 6th grade, takes art at least once a week, ensuring students have regular, high-quality arts instruction as part of their learning experience The elementary art curriculum supports student growth across multiple areas, including math, reading, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, while promoting confidence, motivation, and pride in their creative work.
Gilbert Public Schools is dedicated to providing every student with a comprehensive, high-quality education. To learn more about arts education across GPS, or to learn more about other areas such as athletics, music, and performing arts, visit GilbertSchools.net/Student-Life.