Jerry Foster

Director of Fine Arts

Florence Academy of Fine Arts (FAFA)

Jerry Foster is in his 12th year as Director of Fine Arts for the Florence Academy of Fine Arts and the Florence City Schools. The Academy is the result of a vision of Mr. Foster’s and the support of an Administration, Faculty, Students, Parents and Community that bought into his dream of a Fine Arts School. Mr. Foster graduated from Troy University with a music education degree with emphasis in vocal and instrumental music. He also has a certificate in elementary music and a degree in Visual Arts from the University of North Alabama and a certificate in 3D animation from the Renaissance Center in Tennessee. Jerry is a published poet, photographer, artist and graphic designer as well as a songwriter and Record Producer. Mr. Foster has artwork hanging the Sports Hall of Fame, photography that has graced the pages of magazines and book covers. He also started a local student art show “The Artistic Renderings of Youth” 32 years ago that has grown to be the largest student show in the state. Mr. Foster spent 20 years as a band director and 8 years as a percussion instructor where his bands and percussion sections consistently received superior ratings, 19 years as an art instructor where his students received International, National, State and local awards yearly with millions in scholarships. He spent 6 years as a choral director in which he built a program from scratch and had an award-winning show choir and 3 time state champion winner in concert choir, girls trio and boys quartet. He spent 3 years as an elementary music teacher, (not his finest moments) and then 2 years as an academic leader. Mr. Foster has spent many years as a professional artist, photographer, musician and advocate for the arts. Presently Mr. Foster in his spare time is writing a musical, a one act play and working on a documentary. He is also working with the city of Florence and hopefully the State on how to promote the wonderful things about both. Jerry has been recognized through proclamation by the state of Alabama for his work as a band director. He received two proclamations from the city of Florence for his work as an art instructor. He is the recipient of the Coca Cola Foundation Joseph B. Whitehead Educator of Distinction Award. Mr. Foster has received the Alabama Art Education Association Art Educator of the year Award as well as the President’s Award. He also has been recognized with the Martin Luther King “Keep the Dream Alive” Award. He has been recognized as the Supervisor/Administration Art Educator of the year Award. Jerry also received the State of Georgia Department of Defense Military Division “Georgia Commendation Medal” from the Governor for his support of military families during Desert Storm. Mr. Foster is a willing advocate for the Arts and if he can in any way assist you or your school/organization, you may contact him at jfoster@florencek12.org or 256-394-5067. Mr. Foster is beginning his 46th year as an educator and still loves young pe