Richland High Teacher Named 2026 Texas Outstanding Art Educator
Photo courtesy of Birdville ISD
Richland High teacher Hoang “Thai” Nguyen has been named the Texas Art Education Association’s 2026 Outstanding Art Educator in the Senior High Division.
The statewide honor recognizes one high school art educator who has made significant contributions to art education and demonstrated an ongoing commitment to providing high-quality visual arts experiences for students.
Nguyen was chosen through a statewide nomination and review process conducted by TAEA’s Awards Committee. Nominees are evaluated on their accomplishments in art education, educational philosophy, professional contributions and letters of recommendation.
“We are excited to celebrate Mr. Nguyen and his recognition from the Texas Arts Educators Association,” said Mark McGahey, Birdville ISD’s director of fine arts. “Each day in his classroom at Richland, he exemplifies the TAEA mission: To promote quality visual arts education in Texas.”
McGahey also highlighted Nguyen’s service as a Visual Art Scholastic Event region coordinator, a role that affects art educators and students beyond Birdville ISD.
The Texas Art Education Association works to advance visual arts education across Texas while recognizing educators who demonstrate excellence and make significant contributions to the profession.
Nguyen will be formally recognized during the first general session of the TAEA Fall Conference, scheduled for November 12-14 in Galveston.