District-Wide Initiative Celebrates Senior Commitments to the Arts
STEVENSVILLE, MD—Queen Anne’s County Public Schools (QACPS) proudly launched what is believed to be Maryland’s first-ever Fine Arts Signing Day on May 2, 2025, at Kent Island High School. This groundbreaking event celebrated graduating seniors committing to pursue artistic studies at the collegiate level — honoring their creative dedication with the same pageantry traditionally reserved for athletic signings.
The event was conceived by Michael Bell, Supervisor of Visual & Performing Arts and 2024 NAEA National Supervisor of the Year, in collaboration with Adam Tolley, Supervisor of Career and Technical Education (CTE), and organized by Career Coach Karen Hesson. The cross-departmental effort highlights QACPS’s commitment to supporting students’ future-ready career pathways in the arts.
🎥 Watch highlights from QACPS’ historic Fine Arts Signing Day on YouTube
“The KIHS Fine Arts signing day was a tremendous success,” said Amber Wright, QACPS 2020 Teacher of the Year and Performing Arts Department Chair. “The public got a special glimpse into how our talented students are turning their passion for the arts into bright futures. It honored their achievements and shined light on the role fine arts play in student learning and well-being.”
“Signing Day is a great way for students going into the arts to get recognized,” said Kylie Blejwas, who will study Dance at Towson University. “I really enjoyed seeing everyone get recognized for their talents.”
“I feel very ecstatic to be continuing in the arts,” said Erin Sedora, who will study Communication Design at Kutztown University. “Especially since I know I’ll be joining a community that has the same ‘second family’ feeling that I’ve experienced in my art classes here at KI.”
“I have been singing and acting since I was in 2nd grade,” said Hayven Applefeld, who will major in Acting at Towson University. “Being recognized for something I love with my whole heart makes me feel seen. I can’t thank everyone enough for understanding how important the arts are and how they should be celebrated. Thank you for making me feel special.”
“When Visual Arts programs take the time to capture and celebrate pivotal moments for students,” said Andrea Schulte, 2023 QACPS Teacher of the Year. “We validate their hard work and support their chosen direction. Goal chasing becomes contagious when younger students witness their success.”
“Our collaboration with the Fine Arts Department reflects a shared commitment to expanding how we define and celebrate career readiness,” said Adam Tolley, Supervisor of Career and Technical Education. “Being part of the first annual Fine Arts Signing Day — the only event of its kind in the state — is a reminder that creative expression in the Arts and career development go hand in hand. Under Mr. Bell’s visionary leadership, this initiative has given our students a platform to celebrate their talents while showcasing the professional opportunities available in the arts.”
2025 Fine Arts Signing Day Honorees – Kent Island High School
- Brooke Register, Illustration – Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
- Erin Sedora, Communication Design – Kutztown University
- Mark Monroe, Illustration & Technical Theater Arts – Towson University
- Jackie Barnett, Illustration – MICA
- Hannah Rauschenberg, Interior Design – Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
- Kaitlyn Lucas, Graphic Design – SCAD
- Alexa Galbraith, Musical Theatre – Towson University
- Julianna Grill, Vocal Performance – Towson University
- Caroline Levin, Humanities and Fine Arts – University of Massachusetts
- Emeline Schweitzer, Dance – Dance Conservatory
- Colby Plocek, Video Production/Music – Berklee College of Music
- Kylie Blejwas, Pop Squad – Towson University
- Reagan Ebaugh, Music Minor (Bassoon) – Towson University
- Faith Willis, Music Education – Towson University
- Cole Redmon, Marching Band – University of Maryland
- Katie Schaefer, Marching Band – University of Maryland
- Kearsyn Spiegel, Pep Band – Flagler College
- Hayven Applefeld, Acting – Towson University
These students have also earned distinctions such as National Scholastic Art Awards, All-State and All-Shore honors, and recognition in regional exhibitions and performances — showcasing the strength and reach of the district’s arts programming.
“Much like athletes, these incredible students have spent years honing their craft,” said Michael Bell,“this initiative ensures their creative commitment is seen, celebrated, and publicly honored. We’re proud to lead the way in making the arts visible, valued, and in recognizing the future artists, performers, and creative professionals who will shape the world ahead.”
This event at Kent Island High School marks the first of two Fine Arts Signing Day ceremonies in Queen Anne’s County Public Schools. The second will take place at Queen Anne’s County High School on Friday, May 9, 2025, where additional student artists — along with students entering the military, workforce, and college — will be recognized.