Aug 5 2025 – A student and teacher at Independence High are being celebrated for excellence in the arts.
Independence High theater director Becky Williams received the Teacher Hero Award from the Tennessee Arts Academy (TAA) in July. The award recognizes teachers who put their talent and creativity on the line to go over and above what is required.
“The award caught me by surprise and truly was a huge honor,” Williams said. “I’ve been teaching for more than 20 years, and it is simply a part of who I am. To get an award gave me a chance to pause and just really appreciate what it is I am so fortunate to do every day.”
Independence High student Paige Nicholas was also recognized by the TAA for her photography skills. Her work won Best of Photography at the Middle Tennessee Regional Student Art Exhibition in the spring semester and was exhibited again at the TAA.
The mission of the Tennessee Arts Academy is to provide exceptional quality professional development, arts training, support, encouragement, information and renewal to teachers and to promote and honor the role of the arts in the lives of all Tennesseans.
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