The Orange County Music and Arts Administrators (OCMAA) has recognized three IUSD educators for their outstanding contributions to arts education.
The 2024 OCMAA Orange County Outstanding Arts Educator Awards celebrate educators who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, innovation and excellence in fostering artistic growth and development among students. This year’s honorees from IUSD are:
Adrian Rangel-Sanchez
Award: Secondary Vocal Music
The Secondary Vocal Music Award honors educators who excel in teaching vocal music at the middle or high school levels. Adrian Rangel-Sanchez, a vocal music teacher at Portola High School, has been recognized for inspiring students through innovative instruction that develops technical skills and cultivates a deep passion for vocal performance.
Joslynne Blasdel
Award: Irene Schoepfle Lifetime Achievement in Music
This prestigious award honors the lifetime achievements of music educators who have made a lasting impact on their students and peers. Named after Irene Schoepfle, the first music consultant for the Orange County Department of Education, this award highlights individuals whose contributions resonate across generations. Joselynne Blasdel, an instrumental music teacher and department chair, has earned this honor after more than 30 years of inspiring and mentoring the next generation of musicians.
Kimberly Snowden
Award: School Site Administrator
This award recognizes school site administrators who have shown exceptional vision and leadership in supporting and growing arts programs. Kimberly Snowden, Principal of Rancho San Joaquin Middle School, is dedicated to advancing arts education, which has enriched her school community and inspired both students and staff. .
Nominees from IUSD
IUSD is proud to celebrate the following nominees for their contributions to arts education:
- Janine Lai
- Tina Peterson
- Cassandra Gaona
- Mitchel Simoncini
- Maddie Peckenpaugh
- Ye Jin Choi
The awardees will be officially recognized during the ceremony scheduled for February 2025. OCMAA is dedicated to promoting quality, equityf and access to arts programs for all students. These values are rooted in comprehensive district arts plans, dynamic community collaborations and inspired leadership.
Congratulations to the IUSD educators for this well-deserved recognition!