Navarro Independent School District

Navarro ISD Students Achieve Top Honors at Regional Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE)

Geronimo, TX – February 10, 2025 – Navarro ISD is thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of its student artists at the recent Regional Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE). Passion met the canvas, and creativity soared on February 9 at Canyon Lake High School where nine talented Navarro High School art students showcased their artistic skills, with eight receiving the highest possible rating (4) and advancing to the Area round of judging. Two of those students have now qualified for the State VASE competition.

Art Teacher Belinda Lara expressed immense pride in her students' dedication and hard work. "These students have poured their hearts into their artwork, spending countless hours perfecting their craft. I am incredibly proud of their accomplishments," Lara stated. "To have eight students receive the highest rating and advance, and then to have two students qualify for State, is truly remarkable."

The students brought home a total of eleven medals, a testament to their talent and commitment. Mr. Ramon Parker, Director of Fine Arts, lauded the students' success. “This is a fantastic accomplishment for our students and our art program. Their dedication and talent are truly inspiring.”

Superintendent Mandy Epley shared her enthusiasm for the students’ achievements. “This is excellent news! So proud of them and thankful for the guidance they had to continue to work on their craft and put in the work to perfect the techniques and details needed to not only create something that moved people through their visual art expression but also earn top recognition!”

The district congratulates the following students on their accomplishments and wishes the two state-bound students the best of luck in the upcoming competition held on April 26 at San Marcos High School. These achievements underscore the strength and growing competitiveness of Navarro ISD's fine arts programs, which continue to shine and establish themselves as a force in the region. Navarro ISD remains committed to fostering creativity and artistic expression in its students, providing them with opportunities to excel.

Bailey Horner rating 4 in Division 3

Sloan Wacaster rating 4 in Division 1

Margaret Ann Kotzur received 2 ratings of 4 in Division 4, State Qualifier

Kayley Thomas rating 4 in Division 1, State Qualifier

Ella Sebesta rating 4 in Division 2

Hailey Wyatt rating 4 in Division 2

Layla Clark rating 4 in Division 4

Madison Tucker rating 4 in Division 4

Kaitlin Ibarra

Above: Artwork of Kayley Thomas

Above: Two Artwork Pieces by Margaret Ann Kotzur