SB Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year Award

Description: The Santa Barbara Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year (PATOy) is selected through a nomination process. Nominations may be made on behalf of a performing arts teacher, or a performing arts teacher may nominate him/herself. The Selection Committee, comprised of educators, members of the community, and Santa Barbara Bowl representatives, will review and rank nominations.

The PATOY is an excellent instructional leader who effectively inspires the creativity of students, and serves the greater school community with performing arts. He or she also serves as an excellent voice representing the importance of performing arts for students in public education.

Within our county, we have many outstanding performing arts teachers who qualify for this special recognition. Districts, principals, and colleagues are encouraged to nominate teachers that qualify. Performing arts teachers may also self-nominate.

Eligibility:

• Any current, fully credentialed, PreK-12 teacher in Santa Barbara County.
• Primary responsibility is teaching performing arts to students.
• Completed a minimum of three years teaching performing arts in the classroom.
• Previously nominated teachers are eligible.

The Santa Barbara Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year:

• Will be recognized at the annual A Salute to Teachers event held each fall.
• May have his/her students perform at a Teachers Network event.
• May be interviewed and filmed for promotional purposes.
• May be asked to speak at other events.
• Will win a cash grant award and a VIP concert experience at The Santa Barbara Bowl, subject to availability.

The SB Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year Award nomination window is now closed. Check back in 2026-27. 

Meet the previous Santa Barbara Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year Award Winners HERE.