Four Katy ISD students recently traveled to Carnegie Hall in New York City to be honored with the Gold Key Metals from the National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Akhil Thadani from Seven Lakes High School, Connie Lau, Asma Mashal and Fatemeh Ebrahimi from Taylor High School were among 25 of the best artists and writers who were recognized.
More than 330,000 entries were submitted and in total, 59 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards were received by students from Katy ISD and other neighboring school districts as well as private schools in Harris County.
“It’s amazing what happens when you mix extraordinary talent with th
e resources, leadership and support our district offers,” stated Lisa Matschek, art teacher for Seven Lakes High School. “To share in the experience of recognizing students at a national level, in the top one percent, was really special. Katy ISD was well represented with five gold national winners in New York City.”
“It truly was a life changing experience for our students,” adds Ashley Niemi, art teacher for Taylor High School. “At the ceremony the key note speaker talked about how his scholastic award was the kick start to him believing he could live a creative life! It was truly an inspirational recognition for us all!”
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards recognizes the vision, ingenuity and talent of students and provides opportunities for creative teens to be celebrated. Harris County Department of Education serves as the regional sponsor of this prestigious national program and hosts yearly judging and awards ceremonies for thousands of writing and art entries. For more information visit www.hcde-texas.org/scholastic .