Arts for LA congratulates Los Angeles County High School for the Arts Principal George E. Simpson on his recognition by California State University Los Angeles as a Distinguished Educator.

Mr. Simpson brings nearly two decades of leadership in arts education to the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) located on the CSULA campus. Under Simpson’s leadership, LACHSA has increased its local, state and national reputation. He will preside over the opening of LACHSA’s first ever school facility in 2013.

“The Foundation is thrilled with Mr. Simpson's award,” said John Jackson, executive director of Arts High Foundation.  "Through his leadership, LACHSA continues to inspire, motivate, and educate the next generation of American arts innovators."  Arts High Foundation provided the leadership which led to the establishment of LACHSA in 1985.  Since the school’s inception the Foundation has provided nearly $20 million in financial support for LACHSA’s award-winning and nationally recognized arts programs.

Prior to joining LACHSA in 2008, he served as director of the Roland Hayes School of Music. Simpson served on the board of directors for the Arts Schools Network, the Grammy Museum Education Advisory Board, the Music Center Education Council, and the Arts High Foundation Board of Directors. He has been recognized for his leadership by the Boston Arts Academy, the Berklee College of Music, and was named Principal of the Year in 2010 by the Association of Los Angeles County Office School Administrators.

For their major contributions to local education, two other highly-accomplished educational leaders—Irene Herrera-Stewart and Michelle P. Windmueller—will be honored as Distinguished Educators.