Champion of Arts Education Award Categories
Champions in Education
	Schools and arts educators who demonstrate superior teaching and use innovative ways to make the arts an essential part of their students' education.
		Distinguished Arts Educator of Dance Distinguished Arts Educator of Music Distinguished Arts Educator of Theater Distinguished Arts Educator of Visual Arts School of Excellence - recipients will be nominated for the Kennedy Center Alliance for Arts Education Network (KCAAEN)'s Creative Ticket Schools of Distinction Award

Champions in Leadership
	Individuals, organizations, businesses, and school boards who actively support arts education, as demonstrated through the dedication of time, expertise, and/or funds to the creation and preservation of sustainable, high quality programs in their schools, districts, and/or communities.
		Excellence in Administration Outstanding Parent Advocate Massachusetts School Committee Arts in Education Distinguished Arts Educator of Visual Arts Media Support of Arts Education Corporate/Business Support of Arts Education

Champions in Programming
	Cultural organizations, artists-in-residence, and community groups whose programs promote excellence in arts instruction, stimulate community support, and demonstrate models of partnerships among educators, artists, cultural organizations, and/or the community at large.
		Artist-in-Residency/Cultural Institution Community Arts Collaborative

Nominations for the categories below are submitted by the MAAE Board of Directors:
	Irene Buck Service to Arts Education
		Honors individuals for distinguished service as an advocate for arts education. Recipients exemplify commitment and service to, and support of, the arts and arts education communities.
	Legislative Leadership
		Honors state legislators who demonstrate distinguished leadership, support, and commitment in the areas of arts education, education reform, and statewide art funding.