Poteet High School is one of the 125 schools nationwide selected as GRAMMY Signature Schools semifinalists for 2012. Finalists will be announced in mid-March 2012, and the selected schools will receive a custom award and a monetary grant ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to benefit their music program.

"This is a tremendous recognition for Poteet to be associated with the GRAMMY name in and of itself," said Poteet's Fine Arts Department Chair and Choir Director Ashley Westgate, who led the detailed application process that included submitting recordings by the band, choir and orchestra. "We would be so appreciative to earn the additional funding for all three music departments and for our new music theory class as well."

"The GRAMMY Signature Schools program sustains excellence in music education by granting awards to public high school music programs in communities across the country," said Neil Portnow, President/CEO of The Recording Academy and the GRAMMY Foundation. "Each of these semifinalist schools should be commended for their commitment to keeping the arts in their curriculum for the long-term benefits of their students."

For a complete list of 2012 GRAMMY Signature Schools semifinalists, click here.

Poteet High School Music Awards

"Poteet has fabulous fine arts teachers and students deserving of this GRAMMY recognition," said Poteet's Fine Arts Department Chair and Choir Director Ashley Westgate. Here are some recent awards earned by individuals and musical groups at the high school:

All music departments:

• Numerous students selected to the Texas Music Educator Association All-State bands, choirs and orchestras
• Multiple students advancing to Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest
• Students selected as Outstanding Performers at Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest
• Consistent sweepstakes winners at UIL contests
• Many first division ("superior") ratings from students who compete at Solo and Ensemble Contest
• Numerous students who participate in All-Region Band, Choir and Orchestra

Band:

• Multiple Grand Champion and Best in Class awards at local marching festivals
• Texas Honor Band at 1996 Four States Bandmasters Association Convention
• 2008 Percussive Arts Society Showcase Ensemble
• 2008 Texas Music Educators Association Class AAAA Honor Band
• 1997, 2005 & 2007 Class AAAA State Marching Band Champions
• John Philip Sousa Foundation 2009 Sudler Flag of Honor

Choir:

• Texas Music Educators Association Invited Choir
• "Superior with Distinction" Award from Capitol Music Fest
• Grand Champion Award at New York Music Festival

Orchestra awards:

• Students selected to Mesquite All-City Orchestra