The Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) is an institution dedicated to the advancement and support of visual arts education. In particular, it is committed to providing useful resources, insightful advocacy, and valuable networking opportunities for its members.
The association offers a wide-ranging suite of online resources, including a comprehensive listing of job openings, informative manuals and governance documents, as well as an extensive member directory. In addition, the TAEA website features a section devoted to providing access to web resources, scholarships, and grants. A unique offering is the STAR TRENDS portal, although specific details about this feature are not immediately available.
TAEA's commitment to advocacy is exemplified by its clearly stated mission, policies, and strategic plan, which outline its objectives for the years 2022 to 2027. Furthermore, it supplies resources for art educators to learn about best practices, and encourages them to participate in a book study program titled Be Visual.
Networking and community-building are key tenets of TAEA's function. The association hosts numerous events and programs, such as the Visual Arts Scholastic Event, the Texas Elementary Art Meet, and the Annual Members Art Show. Additional events include conferences and the Youth Art Month, featuring a special flag display.
Members are categorized into divisions based on their position, such as Elementary, Middle School / Junior High, Senior High, Visual Arts Administrators of Texas, Higher Education, Private School, Student, Museum Community Art, and Retired Educators. This allows for interactions and the exchange of ideas among peers in similar roles.
TAEA takes pride in recognizing excellence within its community. It honors deserving individuals and groups through initiatives such as the TAEA Leadership Scholars, the Districts of Distinction program, and the Awards initiative.
Geographically, TAEA is organized into 20 different regions, facilitating localized activities and interactions. This alignment caters to the needs and convenience of its members across the state of Texas.
The option of digital or traditional mail/fax membership application underlines TAEA's efforts to be inclusive and accommodating to its members. Its online platform also includes a members-only section, signifying the association's commitment to providing exclusive, valuable content for its community.
Overall, TAEA demonstrates multitude offerings and resources dedicated to the promotion, development, and advocacy of art education in Texas. Anyone invested in this field would likely find value in joining this community for networking, resources and support, among other benefits.