Kelly Adkinson Wins 2026 Teacher of the Year - Baton Rouge

Kelly Adkinson, a visual arts teacher at Baton Rouge Center for Visual and Performing Arts, has won the 2026 Arts Schools Network Teacher of the Year award, the East Baton Rouge Parish School System announced.

The national award recognizes teachers whose commitment, abilities and achievements demonstrate exemplary arts education. Adkinson designs interdisciplinary learning experiences that integrate academic concepts with visual arts and production design instruction.

"Ms. Adkinson exemplifies the very best of arts education through her creativity, instructional excellence and unwavering commitment to student success," said Dr. Casaundra McNair, EBR Schools executive director of Innovative and Specialized Programs.

Adkinson coordinates large-scale visual arts showcases that feature student work across the school. She also mentors teachers and leads fine arts professional development for educators throughout the district.

The recognition coincides with BRCVPA and Forest Heights Academy of Excellence joining McKinley Middle Magnet School as Arts Schools Network Exemplary Schools. District leaders will formally recognize Adkinson this fall at the Arts Schools Network conference in San Diego.