South Lebanon Elementary teacher named 2025 outstanding art educator

South Lebanon Elementary School teacher Andrea Klein was recently selected as the 2025 Outstanding Elementary Art Educator of the Year by the Pennsylvania Art Education Association, which recognized Klein at a luncheon Oct. 10.

In 2025, the PAEA honored nine people involved with Pennsylvania’s art education, with different awards for different roles and levels of education.

Klein explained over email that she first learned she had been nominated for the award over the summer, and found out she was selected in September.

“I was so surprised and happy,” said Klein. “I work really hard to provide my students with a good solid art education and I serve as a volunteer board member with the PA Art Educators association. It feels amazing to be recognized for my efforts. Learning that I was selected for the award was a great way to start the school year!”

Klein, whose exhibitions, curriculum development, and collage artwork were shouted out in a PAEA Instagram post, explained that she teaches through demonstration, collaboration, and facilitating creativity by students.

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“I strive to teach my students in an engaging manner,” said Klein. “I work to create a warm and welcoming environment in my classroom to foster creativity and learning for all students. I incorporate the basic principles of teaching for artistic behaviors: What do artists do? The child is the artist, and the art room is the child’s studio.”

Klein referenced the studied benefits for students of a strong art education, which a 2016 Dominican University of California review stated includes higher test scores and general academic development in other subjects, positive social outcomes, and increased creative abilities.

“Elementary students love coming to art class and having a creative outlet during the school day,” she explained. “They have the chance to express themselves in ways that are meaningful to them.

“Students learn powerful skills in art. Known as studio habits of the mind, these skills include envisioning, observing, engaging and persisting, stretching and exploring, and understanding art worlds. All of these skills are valuable to learn and apply in all aspects of life.”

The Cornwall-Lebanon School District congratulated Klein on its website Oct. 17, noting that the district plans to recognize Klein at a future CLSD school board meeting.

According to that article, the PAEA described Klein as “an outstanding leader in the field of art education. Andrea’s creative contributions in her school, community and across the state, as well as her excellence in professional engagement, and dedication to service are meritorious and deserve our recognition.”

Over email, CLSD superintendent Dr. Philip Domencic told LebTown that “Cornwall-Lebanon School District is very proud of Mrs. Klein’s accomplishment as 2025 PA Outstanding Elementary Art Educator. The honor speaks to her dedication to the young student artists at South Lebanon Elementary School and the District is thrilled to have her teaching and inspiring our students and the art program there.”

Klein said that a strong art education is made easier by support from the district, school, parents, and students.

“I’d like to thank the PA Art Educators Association for the opportunity to receive the honor of recognition,” said Klein. “I’d also like to thank my principal for his support, my coworkers, the CLSD art department, the CLSD administration, the parents at South Lebanon, and most importantly, all my amazing students at South Lebanon elementary! I would not be able to achieve my goals without the support of this wonderful community!”