This week, more than 3,000 Harris County teen artists and writers in grades 7-12 were recognized in the Regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards ceremonies sponsored by Harris County Department of Education (HCDE). 

Following a record number of submissions, 33 special awards were presented to students and teachers, totaling nearly $14,000 in prizes and scholarships. Gold and Silver Key awardees paraded across the stage as their families, friends, and teachers looked on. 

In other Scholastic Awards news, 94 students from 12 districts and 11 private schools in the Harris County Region—the country’s largest Affiliate Partner of the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards—earned 101 national medals. The accolades included Gold Medals, Silver Medals, Silver Medals with Distinction, Best-in-Grade, and American Visions and Voices Medals.  

“It excites me, and I feel motivated. All the things I’ve done have led me to this moment,” said Langham Creek High School junior Adriana Oberto, who earned the prestigious National American Visions Medal for her photography entry. “It validates what I’ve been through to create this piece, beginning with my freshman year [photography class].”  

National medalists receive certificates, and their works are considered for national exhibition, publication, and scholarships valued as high as $10,000. Gold medalists and most scholarship recipients are invited to attend the annual National Ceremony on Thursday, June 9, at Carnegie Hall. 

See the complete list of Harris County national medalists here.