August 29 - Comal ISD’s theatre arts program has been named a 2025 Exemplary Award of Distinction Program by the Texas Educational Theatre Association (TxETA). This award recognizes districts that make outstanding contributions to raising standards for theatre education through achievement, curation of resources, diversity and advocacy for theatre arts.
This prestigious recognition highlights districts that demonstrate outstanding commitment to fostering theatre education and participation in their communities.
“We are proud of our educators who continue to share their skills and expertise in our theatre arts classrooms every day,” says Gary Cooper, director of fine arts for Comal ISD. “This award showcases how our program serves as a model of creativity, community and educational excellence.”
To achieve this status, districts must annually submit a detailed application demonstrating their dedication to theatre through multiple avenues. Points are awarded based on a range of criteria, including quality and quantity of theatrical performances, a robust play library and access to acting spaces, community and administrative support for theatre programs, student involvement in University Interscholastic League (UIL) contests, participation in theatrical design competitions and theatre technology.
Comal ISD’s recognition at the Exemplary tier reflects its excellence across these categories and its dedication to advancing the arts in education. The Award of Distinction is a tiered honor, with levels ranging from Recognized to Exemplary.
This achievement reflects the ongoing passion and hard work of the theatre educators, students, and supporters who ensure that the performing arts remain a vital and thriving part of school culture. TxETA aims to support, promote, and expand educational theatre at all levels by providing educational opportunities, building a network of resources and support and creating a forum for establishing standards, programs, and projects to celebrate the importance of theatre.
Comal ISD Middle School Theatre Teachers
- Macie Despain, Bulverde Middle
- Melissa Warner, Canyon Middle
- Sabrina Zarate, Canyon Middle
- Amey Szanto, Church Hill Middle
- Noah Ainsworth, Danville Middle
- Zoie Harris, Mountain Valley Middle
- Hunter Pittman, Pieper Ranch Middle
- Kourtney Reffell, Pieper Ranch Middle
- Kelly Menz, Smithson Valley Middle
- Emily Harrison, Spring Branch Middle
Comal ISD High School Theatre Educators
- Ryan Ramon, Canyon High
- Katheryn Ernst-Broadway, Canyon High
- Benjamin Matthews, Canyon Lake High
- Candice Ornes, Davenport High
- James Black, Pieper High
- Emily Johnson, Pieper High
- Judy Adams, Smithson Valley High
- Anthony Hanke, Smithson Valley High
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-The production of Failure: A Love Story by theatre students at Canyon Lake High School advanced to the state 4A UIL one act play meet in 2025. This was the fourth year in a row for CLHS to advance to the state meet.