Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) announced on Jan. 29 the regional winners of the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Serving as the second-largest regional affiliate of the program, HCDE received more than 13,900 submissions from students in Harris, Galveston and Fort Bend counties this year. The number is almost 2,000 more than last year.
Presented by the nonprofit organization The Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, the awards program has fostered creativity and talent within millions of students in grades 7-12 for more than 100 years. The prestigious scholarship recognition program features many renowned alumnae, such as Andy Warhol, Steven King and Amanda Gorman, who have gone on to become leaders in their fields.
Students submit their best artwork and writing each fall to compete at the regional level.
HCDE recruits a panel of local professionals who judge entries using the national rubric and select regional winners, including Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mention recipients. Additionally, 10 students were nominated for the American Voices and American Visions Awards as standout regional competitors in their respective categories.
Gold Key award recipients advance to compete at the national level.
Of the more than 13,900 submissions from Harris, Galveston and Fort Bend counties, HCDE awarded
- 575 Gold Keys in Art;
- 661 Silver Keys in Art;
- 645 Gold Keys in Writing; and
- 1,010 Silver Keys in Writing
These students, who brought a distinct and authentic voice, perspective and technical skill to their work, will be showcased during HCDE’s Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Exhibit and Celebration on Mar. 26 at the Wortham Center.
Find the full list of winners here.