For the City Times

Patricia Larsen. (Photo: WRPS)

The Wisconsin Art Education Association (W.A.E.A.) has announced that two Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools (WRPS) employees have received their highest recognition.

The W.A.E.A advocates for Art Education in their schools and recognizes art educators across the state for their involvement in the arts and education. Each year, one educator is picked for divisional awards.

This year, Wisconsin Rapids employees took home two of these prestigious awards.

Patricia Larsen of Washington Elementary was awarded “Art Teacher of The Year” and Connie Henke of Woodside Elementary was awarded “Elementary Art Teacher of the Year.” Both will receive their award in October at the Art Education Convention in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Connie Henke. (Photo: WRPS)

“We have a very strong art department in our public schools and I am so pleased that two of our teachers have been recognized,” said WRPS Superintendent Colleen Dickman.  “It is an honor to work with these two individuals and I couldn’t be more pleased for them.”