The Kansas Art Education Association (KAEA) has named Wendy Ping the 2024-25 Overall Outstanding Art Educator of the year. The award will be officially presented at the KAEA Fall Conference on Saturday October 19 at 11 AM in the Rock Springs Conference Center Heritage Hall Auditorium.

Mrs. Ping is a highly respected Kansas art educator who currently teaches Middle Level Art at Monticello Trails Middle School, Shawnee, KS. Her educational credentials include a BA-Kansas State University, MS-Baker University, and National Board Teacher Certification in Art.

Jennifer Smith, Monticello Trails Middle School Principal, praises “Wendy's commitment to excellence in education… evident in every brushstroke, every sculpture, and every creative endeavor her students undertake.” and notes that “Her commitment to art education extends beyond the walls of Monticello Trails (as she served) on the Kansas Art Education Association board from 2015-2020, lead workshop(s) at the KAEA professional development state conference, and co-chaired the state conference in 2019. Her tireless efforts and exemplary leadership have left an indelible mark on all those she has mentored, collaborated with, and inspired. She is truly a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional art educator, and I have no doubt that her influence will continue to inspire generations of artists for years to come.”

The Kansas Art Education Association (KAEA) is a statewide professional organization dedicated to the growth and development of art educators and the advancement of high quality art education. Learn more about KAEA here > www.kaea.com