The Tuscarawas Arts Partnership celebrated the accomplishments of local student artists and arts educators during Arts Signing Day 2026.
The annual event recognizes graduating seniors who have committed to continuing their education and careers in the arts while also honoring the educators who have shaped and inspired their creative journeys.
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Sarah SpiesSubmitted
The keynote address was delivered by Sarah Spies, president and CEO of the United Way of Tuscarawas County. A longtime advocate for arts education and former TAP board member, Spies spoke about the value of the arts within schools and communities and encouraged students to continue creating and leading through their work while relying on skills strengthened through the arts.
Students recognized during the ceremony included:
Aiden Ashcraft, Dover High School, music education, The University of Akron;
Baylee Berlyak, Indian Valley High School, interior design, Kent State University;
Emerson Edie, Dover High School, painting and photography, Cleveland Institute of Art;
Brennen Hostetler, New Philadelphia High School, architecture, Savannah College of Art and Design;
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Zane Kuczirka, Claymont High School, civil engineering and theatre, University of Mount Union;
Anna Meek, New Philadelphia High School, music therapy, Cleveland State University;
Rene McKinney, Indian Valley High School, architecture, The Ohio State University;
Monica Pauley, Indian Valley High School, music performance/pre-med, Hope College;
Luc Poirier, New Philadelphia High School, music production, Ohio University; and
Melody Sprowl, Indian Valley High School, art education, West Liberty University.
TAP also awarded the 2026 TAP Emerging Artist Scholarship to Brennen Hostetler and Melody Sprowl for their dedication, artistic achievement and commitment to future creative pursuits.
The evening included recognition of 18 Arts Educator of the Year nominees representing school districts and arts programs across Tuscarawas County. Organizers said this year marked the largest and most diverse nomination pool in the history of the program, reflecting the continued growth and impact of arts education throughout the region.
Micah Carrick of Dover City Schools was named the 2026 Arts Educator of the Year. Organizers kept the honor confidential until later in the evening because Carrick was unable to attend the ceremony while directing a student concert, a circumstance organizers said reflected the dedication for which he was being recognized. Following the ceremony, Carrick was surprised with the award presentation during the Dover Spring Band Concert.
In announcing the award, TAP highlighted Carrick’s decades-long commitment to music education, his inclusive and supportive classroom culture and the lasting impact he has had on generations of students.
“It is my great joy to have been recognized by the Tuscarawas Arts Partnership as this year’s Arts Educator of the Year,” Carrick said. “Being recognized by parents, students and colleagues is quite an honor, especially given the fact that Tuscarawas County is blessed with so many fine educational leaders in the arts who make a meaningful impact in the lives of students daily. To be surprised with this award at our Spring Band Concert made the recognition even more special.”
Carrick also reflected on the importance of arts education and the environment it creates for students.
“The power of small, consistent improvements stacked over time is undeniable and is one of the superpowers in arts education,” Carrick said. “I believe to my core that the arts provide students with a safe place to explore who they are and who they want to be. When students realize their inherent value as humans, embrace mistakes as part of the artistic learning process and commit to patiently develop their ability, the sky’s the limit for their artistry. The arts provide a voice for the voiceless and a place for all students to belong. I’m grateful to the Tuscarawas Arts Partnership for not only celebrating, but amplifying that artistic message in our county and beyond.”
Arts Educator of the Year nominees included Caleb Bradley, Micah Carrick, Lora Cotton, Sara Dittfeld, James Graves, Hope Haney, Samantha Hanenkrat, Shawna Hinkle, Jodi Hupp, Carrie Kunkle, Dana Miller, Tom Morris, Kristi Prucha, Chris Redd, Diane Richardson, David Rutter, Keri Stratton and Kaley Weaver.
The Tuscarawas Arts Partnership thanked the families, schools, community members and sponsors who helped make Arts Signing Day 2026 possible. Special thanks were extended to Freeport Press, Ohio Star Theatre at Dutch Valley and the Performing Arts Center at Kent State Tuscarawas for supporting arts education and student achievement throughout Tuscarawas County.
