The National Art Education Association has named Samantha Waid (Art Teacher at HCMS) to receive the 2020 New Professional Art Educator Award. This prestigious award, determined through a peer review of nominations, recognizes excellence and achievement by new art educators. The award will be presented at the NAEA National Convention in Minneapolis, MN, March 26-28, 2020.

NAEA President Thom Knab states, "This award is being given to recognize excellence in professional accomplishment and service by a dedicated art educator. Samantha Waid exemplifies the highly qualified art educators active in education today: leaders, teachers, students, scholars, and advocates who give their best to their students and the profession."