Visual Arts Teacher Wins National Educator Award | Baton Rouge

Kelly Adkinson, a visual arts educator at Baton Rouge Center for Visual and Performing Arts, has been named the 2026 Arts Schools Network Teacher of the Year.

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System announced the award, which recognizes teachers whose commitment, abilities and achievements advance arts education. Adkinson designs curriculum that integrates academic concepts with visual arts and production design instruction. She coordinates large-scale arts showcases and mentors other educators across the district.

Dr. Casaundra McNair, executive director of Innovative & Specialized Programs for EBR Schools, said Adkinson's work demonstrates "the power of high-quality arts instruction to inspire, engage and transform student learning."

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