Dysart Leads the State in Arts Seals Earned

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 5/20/24

DYSART SCHOOLS - Dysart Unified School District students earned 228 Arizona State Seals of Arts Proficiency, the most of any district across the state of Arizona for the 2023-2024 school year. The arts seal is awarded to high school students who meet rigorous standards, and have demonstrated artistic literacy and high levels of competency in media arts, visual arts, dance, theatre, or music.  The last two years, the district had the second most seals in the state, with 129 last year, and 100 the year before.  

Students must meet certain requirements to qualify, which include achieving a minimum “B” average on all approved arts courses, completing a minimum of 4 credit hours of approved arts courses, completing 80 hours of arts-related extracurricular activities, and a senior capstone project.  Each of Dysart’s high schools, including Dysart High School, Shadow Ridge High School, Valley Vista High School, and Willow Canyon High School had students earn the seal.  

Dysart Unified School District was one of 43 school districts across Arizona that participated this year.  A total of 149 Arizona schools participated, and 1,751 students earned the Arts Seal, 205 of those were from Dysart for a total of 228 seals earned. Twenty-three Dysart students earned double-seals for completing the requirements in two different disciplines, and one student earned triple-seals. Only 45 students statewide earned multiple seals. 

"Our students have dedicated countless hours to their discipline, and we are thrilled to share their hard work," said Danae Marinelli, Director of Arts. "The Seal of Arts Proficiency pushes motivated students to exceed their classroom efforts. These students have crafted portfolios that showcase their growth as artists throughout their high school journey, including their future plans. As arts educators, our aim is to foster lifelong artists who continue to embrace and value the arts beyond high school. The Seal plays a vital role in making that impact possible."