The William Floyd School District Department of Fine Arts was recently honored by the New York State Art Teachers Association (NYSATA) with a Special Citation for a school district/university, an award acknowledging excellence in an institution that provides a significant contribution to art education. William Floyd is one of only two school districts across the state – out of all eligible New York school districts and universities – selected for this honor.

“The William Floyd High School Department of Fine Arts is filled with amazing educators who continuously engage, support and inspire the creativity and talent in our students,” said Kevin M. Coster, superintendent of schools. “We are fortunate to have a group of talented art educators who bring that inspiration to their classrooms each and every day.”

Theresa Bianco, chairperson, Department of Fine Arts, William Floyd School District, said of the award, “It is an honor for NYSATA to recognize our entire department. Our art teachers have worked very hard to prepare our students over the years for the portfolio review helping countless of them earn the highest rating of ‘Distinguished,” she said, adding that the William Floyd School District has supported and provided numerous fun and professional opportunities for art students in grades K-12, including trips to galleries and museums, showcasing the “Artist of the Month” and vast selections of courses offered at the high school. 

Additionally, this year, middle school students had the option to take an eighth-grade elective in art which explores the types of materials and history behind various artists and cultures.

“Having many of our seniors accepted into colleges such as the Fashion Institute of Technology, the Pratt Institute, and the Parsons School of Design gives a clear picture of the success of our art program as we keep growing every year!” added Mrs. Bianco.

William Floyd art educators include: Erin Almeida, Marco Antenucci,  Theresa Bianco, Megan Brady, Anna Cannistraci, James Carson, Linda Francis, Tori Golino, Maryann Harding, Tina Higgins, Melanie Kuklis, Timothy Kosta, Stephanie Laughlin-Taisler, Erika Licausi, Debra Marano, Amanda Maertz, Eileen Randazzo, Jillian Santoro, Sherri Schultz and Gregory Williams.

About the William Floyd School District Department of Fine Arts
The William Floyd School District offers a plethora of additional opportunities in art including a new eighth-grade elective, and high school courses such as sculpture, drawing, AP Advanced Art, studio painting, photography, studio in art, exploration in crafts, and fashion design. The district supports outside opportunities for student-artists at various museums, galleries and nature centers, brings in professional artists for workshops and more. The high school has also continued a beloved tradition of choosing student-designed artwork to grace the cover of the yearbook each year, as well as the senior t-shirt design. The district also hosts a K-12 district art show and recognizes its student-artists and educators at Board of Education meetings. The district participates in portfolio adjudications, honors students in an “Artist of the Month” feature, and is in the process of establishing a Fine Arts “Wall of Distinction” to honor alumni and educators for their accomplishments, dedication and success in the fine arts.