Visual & Performing Arts

Where Every Student Can Discover, Create, and Shine

In HEB ISD, the arts are not just enrichment - they’re an essential part of who we are. From the first crayon sketch in kindergarten to the final bow on a national stage, our students explore their creativity, build lifelong skills, and learn to lead with confidence.

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Nationally Recognized Excellence

We’re honored to be named one of the “Best Communities for Music Education” by the NAMM Foundation 18 times, showcasing our district’s deep commitment to arts education.
Our tradition shines through performances and national recognitions such as:

• The Midwest Clinic – International Band & Orchestra Conference
• Music for All National Concert Band Festival
• TMEA State Convention – Honor Band Winners, Invited Performances, and Presenters
• UIL State Marching Band Finalists and State Winners
• Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (2025 Texas Representative)
• PASIC – Percussive Arts Society International Convention Performers
• Betty Buckley Award-Winning Theatre Students
• Over 650 TMEA All-State Musicians
• Consistent UIL First Division Ratings annually

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Strong Foundations: Elementary Music & Art (Grades K–6)

Every HEB ISD elementary school offers specialists in both Music and Art, ensuring high-quality instruction from Kindergarten through 6th grade. These programs foster creativity, collaboration, and confidence while preparing students for advanced study in junior high and high school.

What Students Learn:

• Kodály and Orff based instruction in singing, rhythm, movement, music reading
• Drawing, painting, sculpture, digital/multimedia arts

Specialized Programs:

• Suzuki Strings (K–6) – Over 400 students across 10 campuses
• Band School of Choice, Pilot Program for 2025 – Focused percussion, piano, and instrumental instruction
• Theatre School of Choice – Storytelling, movement, performance (K–6)

Elementary Honor Ensemble Opportunities:

• HEB Elementary Honor Choir
• HEB Suzuki Honor Orchestra

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Excellence That Grows: Junior High & High School (Grades 7–12)

HEB ISD students have access to in-depth, sequential instruction in every major arts discipline. Programs are available on all secondary campuses and are led by highly qualified, award-winning educators. With a strong tradition of excellence — including over 97% of UIL music ensembles earning First Division ratings — students are supported from their first steps in the arts to advanced, college-ready levels. Opportunities include performance, exhibition, travel, and AP/IB academic pathways.

Music

• Comprehensive Band and Choir programs at all junior high and high schools
• Additional offerings in Jazz Band, Show Choir, Music Theory, and IB/AP Music
• Orchestra available at Central Junior High and L.D. Bell High School

Visual Art

• Courses in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, Jewelry, and Digital Design
• Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Art options
• Regular participation in local and state-level exhibitions

Theatre Arts

• Programs offered at Bedford and Harwood Junior Highs and both high schools
• Curriculum includes Acting, Theatre Production, and Technical Theatre
• Annual performances include UIL One-Act Play, musicals, and student showcases

Dance

• Available at L.D. Bell and Trinity High Schools
• Focused instruction in technique, choreography, ensemble work, and live performance

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Why Families Choose HEB ISD for the Arts

• Music & Art teachers in every elementary school
• Award-winning programs at every level!
• Consistent UIL First Division ratings across the district
• Schools of Choice: Suzuki Strings, Band, Theatre
• Students earning scholarships, college pathways, and career readiness
• A community that values and invests in creative learning

Whether your child is just beginning or ready to shine in the arts, HEB VPA programs support every step of their journey.

Let us help your child discover their spark — and light the way forward!