On March 4, 2026, the Orange County Music and Arts Administrators Association hosted the annual Orange County Outstanding Arts Educators and Orange County Music and Arts Awards ceremony, recognizing exceptional educators, administrators, and advocates who have made significant contributions to arts education throughout Orange County.
The ceremony was held at the Samueli Theater at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Representing the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District were Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kym LeBlanc-Esparza, Director of Secondary Education Mike Young, Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator Dr. Elisabeth Summers, and several district administrators who attended in support of the district’s nominees. The evening celebrated the profound impact of arts education and honored individuals whose dedication continues to enrich students and school communities.
PYLUSD was proud to have ten nominees recognized for their contributions to arts education:
- Dora Almeida – Elementary Music Instructional Assistant
- Megan Arthurton – Kraemer Middle School/Valencia High School Director of Vocal Music
- Sierra DiSchiavi – Primary K–3 Music Instructor
- Bincins Garcia – Yorba Linda High School Director of Bands and Choirs
- Kristin McDonald – Golden Elementary School Principal
- Audra Ross – El Dorado High School Digital Media Arts Instructor, Photography
- David Saliby – Travis Ranch Middle School Instrumental Music Director
- Evin Stamp – Elementary Instrumental Music Instructor
- Mark Switzer – El Dorado High School Digital Media Arts Instructor, Video and Film Production
- Leanne Tangney – Yorba Linda Middle School Art Instructor
Two PYLUSD educators received distinguished honors during the ceremony:
- Audra Ross – Digital & Media Arts, Secondary
- Megan Arthurton – Distinguished Career Service Award, Irene Schoepfle Lifetime Achievement Award for Music
Ms. Arthurton was the sole recipient of the Distinguished Career Service Award this year, recognizing her remarkable and enduring contributions to music education. The Irene Schoepfle Lifetime Achievement Award honors music educators whose work has had a lasting impact on generations of students and educators.
The award is named after Irene Schoepfle, the Orange County Department of Education’s first music consultant, who served in the role from the early 1920s through the 1960s. Her four decades of leadership helped establish and sustain music education programs throughout Orange County.
This prestigious recognition is presented to an individual whose distinguished service and commitment to music education have created a legacy that continues to influence students, teachers, and arts programs across the region.
PYLUSD extends its congratulations to all nominees and award recipients. Their dedication, creativity, and leadership continue to inspire students and strengthen the district’s commitment to excellence in arts education.
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