Denton Independent School District has been named a Texas Thespians Premiere Community for Theatre Education, a statewide honor recognizing districts that demonstrate exceptional commitment to high-quality theatre instruction and student opportunity.

This designation is awarded to districts that provide strong instructional foundations, appropriate facilities and resources, and sustained program support that allows theatre education to thrive at the middle and high school levels. The recognition reflects Denton ISD’s alignment with state fine arts standards, best practices in theatre education, and active engagement in student performance and leadership opportunities through the International Thespian Society.

As part of the recognition process, Denton ISD participated in a detailed review examining curriculum design, instructional time, class sizes, facilities, safety protocols, technical and production resources, and overall district-level support for theatre programs. Submissions were evaluated by theatre education specialists across the state.

“Theatre education plays a critical role in developing well-rounded students,” said Eddy Russell, Denton ISD Director of Fine Arts. “Through theatre, students build confidence, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills that support their growth both academically and personally. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our theatre educators and the district’s continued investment in fine arts education.”

Participation in theatre programs provides students with opportunities to problem-solve, collaborate as a team, and explore diverse perspectives while strengthening self-expression and empathy. These experiences contribute meaningfully to student engagement and prepare learners for future academic, career, and life success.

“High-quality theatre education contributes directly to excellent student outcomes by strengthening critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills that students carry into every classroom,” said Dr. Susannah O’Bara, Superintendent of Denton ISD. “This recognition reflects the impact our fine arts programs have on student growth and the educators who consistently create meaningful opportunities for students to succeed.”

Denton ISD Theatre Educators

Middle School Theatre

• Jillian Milligan – Calhoun Middle School
• Jaime Joyce – Cheek Middle School
• Chelsea Chappell – Cheek Middle School
• Wyatt Kaiser – Crownover Middle School
• Brandi Paige – Crownover Middle School
• Amanda Hirsch – Harpool Middle School
• Andrea Hinojosa – Harpool Middle School
• Kristen Ray Deal – McMath Middle School
• Jennifer Brockette – Myers Middle School
• Patrick O’Neil – Navo Middle School
• Marc Weaver – Rodriguez Middle School
• Amanda Nixon – Strickland Middle School

High School Theatre

• Christopher Rogers – Braswell High School
• Ben Parker (Assistant) – Braswell High School
• Kerri Peters – Denton High School
• Erica Cole (Assistant) – Denton High School
• Eleshia Crotwell – Guyer High School
• Chris Crotwell (Assistant) – Guyer High School
• Scott Thompson – Ryan High School
• Vicki Kirkley (Assistant) – Ryan High School
• Kelly Fiore-Watson – Fred Moore High School