Kay Arms Lifetime Achievement

Pam Mercer-McWilliams

Longview High School | Longview ISD

Pam has been the theatre director at Longview High School for the last 56 years! She has taught over 5000 students, directed over 200 plays and a scholarship fund was named in her honor that has awarded over $150,000 to more than 100 students. Her assistant principal says the following about her: "Mrs. McWilliams is a wonderful example of patience and kindness. The number of hours she works for the program is mind blowing. Mrs. McWilliams does nothing half way. She goes at everything with full force, with such focus and zeal."

Rising Star

Darius Bailey

Sam Houston STEM Academy | Marshall ISD

Darius is in his 3rd year as the K-5 music teacher at Sam Houston STEM Academy in Marshall, Texas. Since taking on this position, he has composed over 20 original songs for student programs. He feels that having songs tailored specifically to his classes gives the students a sense of pride and helps them connect to the content. Darius also wrote and helped choreograph a school line dance for unity day, and wrote and produced a school musical that included every grade level on their campus.

Arts Teaching Excellence

Elementary School

Shawna Lynch

Caldwell Arts Academy | Tyler ISD

Shawna is the elementary theatre teacher at Caldwell Arts Academy. She is continuously in awe of what her students are capable of achieving. They inspire and motivate her to bring new ideas to the classroom and find ways of showcasing their achievements to help cultivate experiences that they will never forget. She wants her students to know that theatre is a place where everyone is welcome, each voice is heard, and they are free to be creative and share their stories!

Arts Teaching Excellence

Middle School

Kiara Hawkins

Hubbard Middle School | Tyler ISD

Kiara is the theatre director at Hubbard Middle School and feels as though her life has come "full circle" because she is introducing students to the beauty of theatre at the same age she was when she was first given the opportunity at Moore MS. She believes that theatre education helps to give students a voice and encourages them to be strong. Her classroom is a place for students to learn, grow, and to become confident and fearless in the pursuit of whatever path they take in their future.

Arts Teaching Excellence

High School

Craig Haynie

Henderson High School | Henderson ISD

Being the director of bands and fine arts with Henderson ISD has always been Craig's dream! Over the past 19 years he has placed focus on helping each and every student improve and demonstrate success in their musical journey, regardless of their ability level. Craig believes every student is different and has a different set of circumstances that help and/or hinder their ability to be a successful musician, but working together, they can always improve and overcome challenges. His approach is designed not only to be applied musically, but to a students' every day life.