HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — A Harrisonburg High School art teacher has been selected as the 2027 Virginia Art Educator of the Year by the Virginia Art Education Association.

Jauan Brooks was presented with the award during the VAEA Awards Reception in Richmond, VA on Friday, October 23. The honor recognizes an art educator whose “dedication to students, commitment to excellence in art education, and contributions to the profession exemplify the very best of art education in Virginia.”

“Ms. Brooks is a talented art teacher and mentor – her passion for inspiring artists of all ability and interest levels is evident in her classroom each and every day. Humble and gracious, she leads by example. Students thrive on her support as she challenges them to think more deeply about their designs while also honoring the unique style of each artist,” said Dr. Melissa Hensley, HHS principal.

She was also recognized by the VAEA in 2024 as a VAEA Distinguished Fellow.