Mexico Academy & Central School District students and staff were among those recognized during the 2026 Gala for the Arts, hosted by CiTi BOCES Arts in Education on June 16 at the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse.

The annual event celebrates innovation and excellence in arts education by honoring educators, students, administrators and community partners from across central New York who are helping create meaningful opportunities in the arts.

Mexico Elementary School Art Teacher Lydia Larrabee was recognized for Innovation in Art, while students Nataleigh Smith and Riley Grant were honored as Student Innovation recipients for their creativity, leadership and contributions to arts education.

Mexico Academy & Central School District congratulates these outstanding Tigers on their well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their dedication to the arts.