GCPS teacher named Secondary Art Educator of the Year

     Dallas Gillespie, a North Gwinnett High School art educator and Visual Art Department chair, has been named the National Art Education Association (NAEA) Southeastern Region Secondary Art Educator of the Year. This award recognizes the professional accomplishments and service of a dedicated art educator.

     “Receiving this award affirms my dedication to art education. It recognizes the sustained commitment I have shown through workshops, mentoring educators, and engaging in state and national conferences,” Gillespie says. “Being honored in this way makes me feel deeply grateful and underscores the value of building strong relationships in the Art Education community.”

     Gillespie received the award in March during the NAEA 2026 National Convention. This is Gillespie’s second NAEA recognition within five years. In 2022, he was named the Outstanding National Art Honor Society Sponsor of the Year. He attributes these recognitions to his time spent as a leader of leaders. Gillespie mentors fellow educators, shares his time, experiences, lessons learned, and practical strategies. Through this work, he has built a strong professional network. Gillespie has also developed and sustained a large, active National Art Honor Society chapter.

     “Receiving two national recognitions in the past five years validates my commitment to leading with art with purpose. I strive to provide students with opportunities to create art with purpose through meaningful community engagement,” Gillespie adds.

     Gillespie has spent 23 years in art education at North Gwinnett High and says the Arts are essential in K–12 education because “creativity” and “making” are innate to the human experience. He adds that in Gwinnett County Public Schools, the visual art classroom also plays a vital role in supporting students’ wellbeing by creating a safe, inclusive environment where they feel a sense of belonging. In these spaces, students are encouraged to take risks, embrace failure, and trust the creative process, all of which are key components in developing resilience and confidence.

     “In an increasingly technology-driven world, art education provides a critical space for students to connect with themselves, others, and the world around them,” Gillespie shares. “Through the art-making process, students develop the ability to communicate, reflect, and build meaningful connections. Beyond technical skills, art education fosters 21st-century skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.”

     The mission of NAEA is to champion creative growth and innovation by equitably advancing the tools and resources for high-quality visual arts, design, and media arts education throughout diverse populations and communities of practice. For more information about the Association and its awards program, visit the NAEA website at www.arteducators.org.