Hicksville Public Schools is proud to announce the district has been awarded the Community of Excellence in Visual Arts (CEVA) distinction by the New York State Art Teachers Association (NYSATA) as part of its 2025 VISION Endorsement program.
Hicksville was selected as one of only 26 school districts statewide to receive this honor during the program’s inaugural pilot year. Out of approximately 686 school districts across New York State, this highly selective recognition places Hicksville among the very best in visual arts education. The CEVA distinction celebrates districts that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to fostering comprehensive, engaging, and high-quality visual arts programming for all students.
The NYSATA VISION Endorsement is guided by six core principles, which Hicksvilleexemplified:
V – Visual Arts
I – Instruction by certified art educators
S – Sequential, standards-based curriculum
I – Inclusivity, equity, and accessibility
O–Opportunities
N – Next-generation artists
Through this recognition, Hicksville Public Schools is being honored for its leadership in shaping innovative, student-centered creative learning environments that inspire curiosity and cultivate lifelong engagement in the arts. Hicksville’s application underwent a rigorous evaluation process conducted by the NYSATA VISION Award Review Committee. The district was assessed across three key areas:
Comprehensive, Sequential, and Rigorous Curriculum: Visual arts instruction is provided at all grade levels by certified educators, emphasizing both technical skill development and creative exploration.
Inclusivity, Equity, and Accessibility: The district ensures that all students have access to visual arts education, supported by strong leadership and sustained investment in the arts.
Visibility and Advocacy: Hicksville actively promotes its visual arts programs, showcasing student artwork and celebrating the accomplishments of its educators within the broader community.
Hicksville Public Schools Supervisor of Fine Arts Chad Wyman said, “This honor reflects the exceptional commitment and creativity of our art faculty, along with the steadfast support of our administration.”
The CEVA designation underscores Hicksville Public Schools’ ongoing commitment to excellence in arts education and its role in nurturing the next generation of artists and innovators.