Niles West High School was recognized as a 2026 School of Distinction by the Illinois Art Education Association (IAEA) in August 2026. This honor celebrates schools with rigorous art, design, and media education programs. Through programmatic and professional excellence, Niles West’s Fine & Applied Arts Department demonstrates high-quality curriculum, instruction, and assessment.  The program also reflects the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards and emphasizes equity, cultural responsiveness and inclusion.

Niles West educators Deanna Sortino, Dawn Zalkus and John Zilewicz were recognized for distinguished programming and the opportunities they provide students. Sortino teaches photography, digital art and graphic design courses. Zalkus teaches ceramics and sculpture courses as well as design courses. Zilewicz teaches drawing and painting courses. 

“This award recognizes rigorous and innovative art, design, and media programs, but what it truly celebrates is the impact our teachers have on students every day,” remarked P.A. Ford, Director of Fine & Applied Art at Niles West. “It recognizes the countless hours spent preparing lessons, providing feedback, showcasing student work, mentoring young artists, and creating spaces where students feel inspired, challenged, and supported.”

In addition to celebrating students’ creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and social and emotional skills that develop through the arts, IAEA’s Schools of Distinction program values how these skills and experiences help prepare students for college and future careers. 

Visit the Niles West Fine & Applied Arts page for more information.