Adelman Named Tancer Arts in Education Finalist

Erika Adelman, Valley Vista High School Arts Teacher, was named one of three finalists for the 2022 Tancer Arts in Education Award.  The Tancer award recognizes Arizona teachers dedicated to sharing a love of the arts with their students.

Adelman has been an arts teacher in Arizona for more than 25 years, including 16 at Dysart Schools teaching at Canyon Ridge School and in her current role at Valley Vista High School.  She serves as a mentor to new art teachers, team lead, writes arts curriculum, and is serving as the district art lead at the high school level for this school year.

Adelman builds strong bonds with her students and encourages many to participate in art mentorships, community programs, and local competitions to feature their art outside of the classroom.  She collaborates with Advanced Placement teachers from around the state and recently became an Advanced Placement (AP) Reader for the National College Board AP Studio Art program in order to better prepare and score her students for the rigorous AP exam.

The award received its name in memory of Robert "Bob" Tancer, local art advocate extraordinaire, who passed away in March 2020. Bob was an active member of the Act One Board, believing in the organization's mission and working on the committee to expand the educational depth of the field trip experience.  Bob saw the tremendous role the teacher played in making the experience rich and educationally rewarding.

Act One is a nonprofit founded in 2011 to provide children in Title 1 schools in Maricopa, Pinal, and Pima counties with the opportunity to experience arts performances and exhibitions through field trips to professional theaters and museums. Act One provides meaningful arts experiences that enhance the academic and creative potential of children and families in Arizona. For more information on Act One, visit www.act1az.org.