Greetings!

Deadline to submit FSAA student artwork entries is February 13th!

FAEA's Florida Student Art Assessment (FSAA) is Florida's premier program for assessing student artwork. This program serves as a tool to help visual art teachers develop their art programs, foster performance in the classroom, and celebrate the artistic achievements of Florida's students, teachers, and school art programs.

The deadline is fast approaching! Log in to your FAEA account to submit your students' artwork today.

Deadlines:

• February 13, 2026 - deadline to submit student artwork submissions
• February 27, 2026 - deadline for FAEA office to receive payments and signed release forms

*New this year: You may now enter up to three entries per student.

Click here to learn more about the Florida Student Art Assessment, view the guidelines, access the scoring rubrics, and view past years' virtual exhibitions.

The Heart of Our Work: St. Pete Sparks and February Momentum

Dear FAEA Family,

If January was about preparing our "fresh canvas," then February is where the composition truly begins. As the initial excitement of the New Year settles into a steady rhythm, I am reminded that the heart of our association isn't just in our shared goals, but in the daily work you do in your classrooms, studios, and your communities. 

Returning Inspired from St. Pete

As I write this newsletter, I am filled with excitement after spending this past weekend in St. Petersburg with the new 2026 & 2027 FAEA Board of Directors. Getting this group together in one room was nothing short of inspiring.

The room was filled with some new ideas and a profound commitment to our mission. The enthusiasm of this new board is inspiring, and I can tell you firsthand that they are listening and are ready to work for you. We spent the weekend diving deep into our vision for the next two years. I left feeling more motivated than ever. Stay tuned! You’ll be hearing from the new Division Directors very soon with exciting updates and new opportunities tailored to the needs of each Division. 

Building on Our Foundation

I also want to officially celebrate that Scott Evans is beginning his transition into his role with the Center for Fine Arts Education (CFAE). Having a partner with his level of advocacy and passion for arts education is already proving to be an incredible asset. We are moving forward with a shared vision, and I am more confident than ever that our association is in excellent hands.

The February "To-Do" List

We have a few important deadlines and celebrations on the horizon. Let’s keep that momentum going:

• FSAA Submissions: This is the big one! I encourage you to submit your student artworks for the Florida Student Art Assessment (FSAA) by February 13, 2026. This is a vital tool for highlighting the rigor and excellence of our high-quality programming that is happening across the state. 
• Member Spotlight: We want to celebrate you! If you know a colleague who is doing transformative work, nominate them (or yourself) for our Member Spotlight.
• Looking Toward Youth Art Month: Start planning your Youth Art Month celebrations now! Start gathering your resources and planning your local advocacy events. Remember: The World Needs Art, and next month is our time to shine a spotlight on the impact of arts education.

A Legacy of Service 

I also want to take a moment to say thank you to Dr. Kathy Sanz for her years of dedicated service to the Florida Art Education Association and her tireless advocacy for the arts in Florida and across the country. Her work has helped to ensure the success of the future of our association. Your legacy will live on in the work we do each day. Enjoy retirement! 

Final Thoughts

As we navigate the shortest (and often busiest) month of the year, don't forget to find time for your own creative practice. Whether it’s a quick sketch or a 90s rap break to clear your head, keep that spark alive. I’ll be here, likely hum-singing some Salt-N-Pepa while reviewing our advocacy goals, and always cheering you on.

Warmly,

Christy Garton

President, Florida Art Education Association

P.S. Together we are STRONGER!

2026 Youth Art Month Theme: The World Needs Art

What is Youth Art Month?

Youth Art Month (YAM) is a national arts advocacy program that is celebrated during the month of March. This program strives to recognize, encourage, and celebrate art education in the classroom. FAEA celebrates by highlighting classroom success stories, recognizing outstanding art teachers, and encouraging teachers to promote their art programs in their communities.

How can I get involved with YAM?

FAEA invites all art educators to participate in YAM activities this year. YAM celebrations can be as simple as a single-class learning activity that focuses on the value of the arts. Celebrations can also involve school-wide or community art exhibitions, fundraisers for school art programs, or other community art outreach programs. Visit the FAEA website to find ideas to incorporate YAM into the classroom.

Share your art program success stories on social media and tag @FloridaArtEd in your post and include the following hashtags: #YouthArtMonth #YAM

Together, we can raise awareness of the value of visual arts education in our schools and of the positive impact that art educators have on their students and communities.

YAM Program Overview

50 Quick Ideas to Celebrate YAM

Cover Artwork:

Connor Carter (Grade 2)

Night Owl

Mixed Media

Gulf Beaches Elementary

Teacher: Lauren Miller

Pinellas County