School System's Visual Arts Administrator Penny Freeland Recognized as Art Leader

Penny Freeland is the Visual Arts Administrator for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.

At the National Art Education Association Conference in Chicago last weekend, Freeland was recognized for being a part of the Inaugural Class of the School for Art Leaders.

“It was a pleasant surprise,” Freeland said.

Since 1947, art educators representing all states, regions, and work contexts have provided volunteer leadership service that has shaped the field of art education and positioned The National Art Education Association (NAEA) as the premier professional community for art educators. Committed to supporting art educators in their quest to excel as leaders, NAEA has invested in the design of a 21st century flagship program: School for Art Leaders at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Utilizing experiential, action-learning modules and in-depth conversations with expert leaders, the program provides participants with learning experiences and skills to successfully lead in any environment.

Those selected for each class annually will contribute to the development of an extraordinary community cohort committed to leadership excellence. Upon successful completion, participants become members of the national School for Art Leaders network and are positioned to excel as educator, artist and advocate leaders.

The purpose of the NAEA School for Art Leaders at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is to provide a transformative experience for art educators to both inspire and prepare members to become active leaders of positive change in the field of art education.