Cristina Ann Correa, MFA
Cristina Ann Correa, MFA, is a veteran art educator and interdisciplinary artist whose career spans more than two decades of empowering students and educators through creativity, culture, and critical inquiry. Known for her dedication to equity and access in the arts, she has cultivated a dynamic career at the intersection of education, advocacy, and artistic practice. As a member of the Art21 Teacher Council and Visual Arts Department Chair at Plano ISD, Cristina continues to champion innovative approaches to visual arts education while mentoring educators and shaping meaningful learning experiences for students of all ages.
Throughout her career, Cristina has taught visual arts, art history, and Mexican-American studies, emphasizing cultural relevance, student voice, and creative problem-solving. Her work as an interdisciplinary artist reflects her deep connection to identity, heritage, and community—bridging traditional and contemporary forms to tell stories that matter. She has also served in influential roles with organizations such as The College Board, where she mentors AP Art & Design educators nationwide, and the National Art Education Association, where she serves on the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Commission.
Cristina’s leadership extends beyond the classroom into national and global arts advocacy. Her work has helped shape inclusive curricula and equitable assessment practices that expand access to quality arts education for all learners. Recognized as the Pride of Plano Art Educator of the Year (2024) and a Senior Teacher Leadership Fellow (2025), she continues to inspire others through her unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts. Passionate about mentorship, collaboration, and social justice, Cristina Ann Correa remains a driving force in reimagining what’s possible through art and education.
• Master's of Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Visual Arts, Latin American Art History & Mexican American Studies
• Bachelor's of Science in Mass Communications and Graphic Design
• EC-12 Art Certified: Texas Education Agency
• English As a Second Language Certified: Texas Education Agency
• National Board Certification for Teaching: Candidate, Early Adolescence through Young Adult Visual Arts
• The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley - MFA
• Texas Woman's University - BS
• Senior Teacher Leadership Fellow
• Pride of Plano Art Educator of the Year
• School for Art Leaders Graduate
• UT-RGV College of Fine Arts Young Alumnus Merit Award
• Ready to Lead Fellow
• Leadership Scholar
• Art21 Educator
• National Art Education Association (NAEA)
• The College Board
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, passion, and an unwavering commitment to education and the arts. After graduating from college as a single mother, I went to an interview for a high school art teacher position with my four-day-old son—and I got the job. That moment defined my determination to build a meaningful career despite any obstacles. Over the years, I continued to grow, eventually working for a public charter school while earning my master’s degree in Fine Arts. My journey has always been fueled by a deep belief in the value of creativity and artistic expression in education. One of my proudest achievements was helping to defeat a bill in 2021 that aimed to eliminate fine arts programs in Texas. Advocating for the importance of art education allowed me to ensure that future generations of students would continue to have access to the transformative power of the arts in high school.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to maintain a constant desire to learn and grow. No matter where you are in your career, there’s always room to expand your knowledge, refine your skills, and challenge yourself to reach new heights. Embracing lifelong learning has allowed me to stay adaptable, curious, and passionate about the work I do.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are dedication, creativity, and love for learning. I believe in nurturing curiosity and encouraging growth—both in myself and in those around me. At home, I find joy in sharing these values with my son, who loves reading and knitting. Seeing his passion for learning and creating reminds me daily of why I value patience, imagination, and the simple joy of discovery in everything I do.
Locations
Mckinney, TX 75069
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