INDIANAPOLIS, IN (October 12, 2017) — Friendswood (Texas) High School, located in the greater Houston area, has been selected as the recipient of the National Performing Arts School of Excellence Award by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

Friendswood was selected based on its diverse and award-winning performing arts programs.

“We received notice of the award just after Hurricane Harvey, so it was such a great boost of morale, and we are thrilled beyond belief to receive such a recognition,” said Kathy Powdrell of the Friendswood Theatre Department.

This award is presented to one high school every fall during National Performing Arts Activities Week (October 8-14) as part of the NFHS’ National High School Activities Month, which is celebrated to remind students, parents, coaches, officials and others in communities across the country about the values and benefits of interscholastic activity programs.

During the week, the Friendswood High School performing arts programs will be highlighted, and students in the programs will be presented with a plaque by representatives from the NFHS Speech and Music Committees.

James Weaver, NFHS director of performing arts and sports, says this award is another way to show the significance of fine arts programs.

“This award is a way to recognize the great fine arts programs around the country,” Weaver said. “The award can excite programs to grow, and we can continue to highlight the importance of performing arts within high schools.”

Friendswood High School has a longstanding history of outstanding performing arts programs, and 2017 is the 50^th anniversary of its school-wide theatre production.

“When we produce our all-school musical, everything is done in-house,” Powdrell said. “We have our own orchestra and dance team performing … Our performing arts programs are all very strong and they are all student-driven and student-centered. We have high standards of excellence here and the theatre program is one of the winningest in the state of Texas. We are very community-driven and excited to celebrate this award and to continue our hard work.”