Chris Hahn, Headmaster of Prince of Peace Christian School,Honored with 2015 Distinguished Administrator Award by theTexas Private School Music Educators Association
By: Valerie Gabriel-Swenson
Chris Hahn, who serves as the Headmaster for Prince of Peace Christian School & Early Learning Center (POPCS), was recently awarded the 2015 Distinguished Administrator Award by the Texas Private School Music Educators Association (TPSMEA). This recognition honors leaders within private education institutions across Texas who have shown exceptional dedication to music education.
Each year, TPSMEA invites its members to put forth nominations for outstanding school administrators, including principals and headmasters. Candidates must exhibit sustained leadership aimed at enhancing music education, alongside a broader commitment to the arts. Essential qualities include a favorable attitude and philosophy towards the arts, skill in program enhancement, a keen understanding of logistical needs, and a demonstrated investment in both the professional development of faculty and financial backing for arts initiatives.
David Lang, the band director at POPCS, put forth Hahn’s nomination for this esteemed accolade. Music educators like Lang acknowledge the crucial influence of administrative support in establishing robust music programs. In his nomination, Lang expressed, “Mr. Hahn has been a tremendous asset to our Fine Arts Department. He recognizes the significant role that arts play in education and has been a strong advocate for our band, theater, choir, and visual arts programs. His passion has allowed our initiatives to flourish and succeed.”
Under Hahn’s leadership, the new Fine Arts Center was launched in 2010, featuring modern facilities such as a 500-seat theater, band hall, private rehearsal spaces, dressing and makeup rooms, a costume center, music and choral rooms, along with an art studio and gallery, all spanning over 35,000 square feet. Furthermore, in the fall of 2014, the music programs at POPCS expanded through the integration of The Arts School, an after-school initiative offering private instruction to about 150 students in various instruments including violin, piano, guitar, voice, percussion, and brass.
Having held the role of Headmaster at Prince of Peace since 2003, Hahn began his journey with the school in 1990 as a teacher and coach.
This April, Prince of Peace Christian School is set to showcase its annual spring musical, Fiddler on the Roof, with performances scheduled for Friday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, April 10 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; and Sunday, April 11 at 3:00 p.m. The events are open to the public, with ticket prices ranging from $8 to $15. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketracker.com
