Through tireless support and advocacy for Fine Arts programs, McAllen ISD Superintendent Dr. René Gutiérrez has earned a state award from the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA).
The TMEA Distinguished Administrators Award was presented to Dr. Gutiérrez on May 4, during the McAllen ISD Choral Festival held at McAllen Performing Arts Center.
“Dr. Gutiérrez has been the primary advocate for ensuring Fine Arts remain a core pillar of McAllen ISD,” McAllen ISD Fine Arts Director Debra Loya said. “Dr. Gutiérrez’ vision was also instrumental in the passage of the historic $335 million dollar bond, securing state-of-the-art facilities for our dance, music and visual arts programs for generations to come.”
The bond, which was passed by voters on May 2, includes $35 million for Fine Arts Multi-Purpose Buildings.
McAllen ISD’s Fine Arts programs have become a benchmark for excellence. The district recently secured 44 UIL Sweepstakes awards across its secondary programs. In addition, this spring, the district was named a national Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation for the 14th consecutive year. That places McAllen ISD in the top seven percent of school districts in the nation.
McAllen ISD offers a comprehensive Fine Arts program that includes award-winning band, choir, orchestra, mariachi, theatre arts, visual arts and dance programs In addition, elementary students are taught by degreed and certified music teachers from kindergarten through 5th grade.
About McAllen ISD
McAllen ISD is a 2025 winner of the state’s highest rating of an “A” grade and a 2025 winner of the state’s Postsecondary Readiness Distinction. The district is home to 31 campuses and approximately 19,500 students. To learn more about McAllen ISD’s schools and programs, contact Student Outreach at 956-687-MISD (6473).
About TMEA
Since 1920, TMEA has worked to ensure excellence in music education for all Texas students. More than 14,000 school music educators are TMEA members belonging to one of five TMEA Divisions: Band, Orchestra, Vocal, Elementary and College.
PHOTO CAPTION
In the photo above, Dr. René Gutiérrez, left, holds the TMEA Distinguished Administrator Award. At right is McAllen ISD Fine Arts Director Debra Loya.