Tyler ISD is proud to announce that Dr. Bobby Markle, principal of Caldwell Arts Academy, has been honored with the Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding School Leadership for 2024. This national award, presented by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel A. Cardona, recognizes exemplary school leaders who foster excellence in education and create positive impacts on their school communities. Dr. Markle will be formally recognized at the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony on November 7, 2024.
Dr. Markle’s leadership has transformed Caldwell Arts Academy into a state and nationally recognized fine arts magnet school. Since becoming principal, he has led the school with innovation, vision, and a deep commitment to student success. Under his guidance, Caldwell Arts Academy has integrated arts education with rigorous academic standards, offering students a wide array of creative opportunities alongside traditional learning.
Innovative Arts Program and Model Classrooms
Dr. Markle has spearheaded the development of nearly 50 unique arts courses, including offerings in music production, jewelry making, and digital arts. Students at Caldwell have the chance to showcase their work in various venues, including local craft fairs, art shows, and even a mobile marketplace. Dr. Markle has also introduced Saturday camps, providing students with supportive, pressure-free learning environments where they can explore their artistic interests.
Caldwell’s classrooms are designed around data-driven instruction, ensuring students receive personalized attention and teachers are equipped with the best training. Staff members have had the opportunity to receive prestigious training from organizations such as the Kennedy Center and Focus Five, allowing them to bring innovative teaching techniques into the classroom.
Reflecting on the award, Dr. Markle said, “Receiving this award alongside our campus’s National Blue Ribbon Award is a testament to the community that has created a truly special place for students and staff to excel. As leaders, principals are driven by how their work impacts the educational opportunities of our kids, and having people recognize that at a national level is something we only dream of when we start our careers. Truly, thank you to Tyler ISD and Caldwell Arts Academy for letting me develop a shared vision alongside amazing educators. It’s a story that deserves recognition!”
Mentorship and Leadership Development
In addition to his work at Caldwell, Dr. Markle is a dedicated mentor, working with other school leaders across Tyler ISD to share his expertise in data-driven instruction and school culture. His influence extends beyond his own campus, as he helps shape leadership practices across the district.
Caldwell Arts Academy has thrived under Dr. Markle’s leadership, consistently earning top ratings from the Texas Education Agency. The school has moved from a C rating to an A and has been recognized as a Leader in Me Lighthouse School, emphasizing leadership development as a core mission. Dr. Markle believes in cultivating students’ leadership skills by empowering them to take charge of their education.
“At Caldwell, we believe in developing the whole child,” Dr. Markle stated. “We want our students to have a voice in their education and to be empowered to take charge of their learning. We’re not just teaching students; we’re cultivating future leaders.”
Impact on the Community
Caldwell Arts Academy’s reach extends beyond the school grounds, with student artwork featured in community spaces around Tyler, including murals and gallery exhibitions. Dr. Markle has built strong relationships with the local community, working with parents, the PTA, and local organizations to create a supportive environment for students. The school’s focus on community involvement is central to its mission, and this has contributed to its success.
Tyler ISD Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford praised Dr. Markle’s dedication, saying, “Dr. Markle has redefined what it means to be a school leader. His innovative approach to arts education and his commitment to academic excellence have created a model for success that is felt far beyond Caldwell.”
A Model for Future Success
Caldwell Arts Academy serves K-8 students across Tyler ISD, offering a holistic approach to education that combines fine arts and academics. Through Dr. Markle’s leadership, the school continues to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and leadership in its students, preparing them to make an impact in their community and beyond.
