Beyond the Brush: Scott Beil Celebrated for a Decade of Excellence

At Peck’s February Kairos assembly, Head of School Andy Delinsky presented Upper School Art Teacher and Arts Department Chair Scott Beil with a Glass Apple Award in recognition of ten years of dedicated service to the School.

The Apple Award is a hallmark Peck tradition, marking a decade of commitment to the School’s mission and the growth of its students.

A Sanctuary for Creativity

Following the presentation of the award, Upper School Woodworking Teacher Mark Mortensen delivered an IRO (In Recognition Of)—a long-standing Peck custom where colleagues honor one another through shared reflections. Mortensen’s tribute highlighted Beil’s steady care for his students, his calm presence in the classroom, and his enduring creativity.

“Walk past the art room early in the morning, and you’ll see what makes Mr. Beil special,” Mortensen said. “The door is open. Students wander in to explore, to create, to simply be. Mr. Beil has built more than a classroom—he's built a sanctuary where middle schoolers can discover who they are, one brushstroke at a time.”

Mortensen emphasized that under Beil’s mentorship, students are gently guided and empowered to be their best selves, both in and outside of the studio. “His quiet strength and genuine care speak louder than any lecture ever could,” he added.

A Decade of Leadership in the Arts

During his ten years at Peck, Beil has been instrumental in shaping the Upper School’s visual arts curriculum. As Department Chair, he has championed "Deep Dive" initiatives that connect classroom learning with the broader art world, encouraging students to view art as a global conversation. From foundational techniques to advanced portfolio electives, Beil’s tenure has been defined by his belief in the importance of every student finding their unique creative voice.

Head of School Andy Delinsky noted that the milestone serves as a moment to reflect on the school’s InDeCoRe value of gratitude. He expressed the school's collective appreciation for Beil's ongoing efforts to make Peck a vibrant environment for both faculty and students.

As Beil begins his second decade at Peck, the community celebrates the lasting impact of his teaching and his commitment to fostering a culture of lifelong learning.