On May 2, 2025, we brought arts educators and CMS leadership together to shine a brighter light on all that our collective programs accomplish through our first ever CMS Arts Educators Awards Ceremony: Endless Creative Possibilities. 

It was a fulfilling and moving evening as we celebrated and raised the work of performing and visual arts teachers. I want to thank everyone that nominated, supported, and attended the event.

Please view our presentation for the full roster of nominees.

Our 2024 - 2025 Arts Educator of the Year Award Winners!

Performing Arts Educators

K-5: Preston Kendall, David Cox Road Elementary School

6-8: Julia Winegardner, Piedmont IB Middle School

9-12: Erica Hefner, Northwest School of the Arts

Visual Arts Educators

K-5: Carole Drummond-Johnson, Highland Renaissance Academy 

6-8: Pooja Nair, J.T. Williams Montessori

9-12: Kody Hall, Mallard Creek High School

Up & Coming Art Educators

K-5: Kaitlyn Linscheid, Matthews Elementary School

6-8: Emiko Faircloth, Chantilly Montessori

9-12: Kira Gileza, David W. Butler High School

Veteran Arts Educator of the Year

Tim Foskey, David W. Butler High School

A special congratulations also to Robin Gray-Bishop, South Academy of International Language, for being named 2025 Dance Educator of the Year by the Charlotte Ballet!