Central High School has been recognized by the Illinois Art Education Association (IAEA) as a 2025 School of Distinction — one of only five schools in Illinois to receive this prestigious award.

This honor celebrates schools with rigorous art, design, and media education programs. To earn the distinction, Central High School demonstrated practices that align with the Illinois Fine Arts and Media Standards, the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards, and Social-Emotional Learning priorities.

Why this matters

Art, design, and media education provide students with essential skills — creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication — while also preparing them for college, career, and citizenship. Research shows that schools with strong arts programs see increased student engagement, attendance, and academic performance.

The IAEA Schools of Distinction program highlights excellence in areas such as:

Curriculum and assessment

Authentic learning experiences

Showcasing student work

Building connected communities

Leadership and advocacy

Ongoing professional development for teachers

A proud recognition

As part of this honor, Central High School will be featured on the IAEA website, receive a digital banner and a physical award at the IAEA Conference, and hold this recognition through 2027.

We are proud of our talented students and dedicated art educators whose creativity and passion made this recognition possible.

👉 Learn more about the IAEA: https://ilaea.org/