TDOE Fine Arts Manager Applauds Houston Middle Programs

Houston Middle School recently welcomed Atticus Hensley, the Fine Arts Manager for the Tennessee Department of Education, to observe a variety of fine arts classes, including art, strings, choir, and band. Hensley’s visit gave him the opportunity to see how the district engages middle school students and prepares them for continued success in high school fine arts programs.

Hensley shared that he was “very impressed with the way the schedule works” and noted that Houston Middle’s integration of arts across disciplines creates a strong foundation for students. Hensley was a performer himself, and noted that he was not only impressed with the level of talent our students have, but also with the way GMSD programs are designed to allow students pursue their artistic abilities at their own level. He is extremely passionate about educational opportunities that help students to understand that art can be an outlet, a hobby, and a career. 

Noting how GMSD prioritizes our students being able to continue growing their passions at the high school level, Hensley said, “I’m anxious to, I hope in the future I have an opportunity to go to high school and see how all that translates.” Overall, he was extremely impressed with the facilities at HMS and how the fine arts are handled in GMSD. 

Through visits like this, Houston Middle School and GMSD overall continues to demonstrate the strength and depth of its fine arts offerings, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction that prepares them for future creative pursuits.