Rockwall ISD has proudly announced the outstanding achievements of its middle school art students at the 2026 Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) Junior Visual Art Scholastic Event (VASE). This prestigious competition, held annually, brings together the most talented young artists from across the region to demonstrate their technical skills and creative vision.

Junior VASE is recognized as the premier competition for middle and junior high school art students in Texas. During the event, students are interviewed by certified judges and their artwork is evaluated based on a rigorous standard of excellence. A Rating 4 (Superior) is the goal for many, signifying exceptional execution and concept.

This year, several Rockwall ISD students were awarded the highest honor at the regional level, the Platinum Medal. This distinction is reserved for the top 10% of entries that received a Rating 4, representing the ‘best of the best’ in artistic mastery. The 2026 Platinum Medalists from Rockwall ISD include:

• Karen Almanza Leon (Rakow Middle School) — “Favorite Puppy”
• Sebastian Gonzalez (Rakow Middle School) — “Reflected Sphere”
• David Limones (Rakow Middle School) — “14am”
• Ariella Fortygin (Rakow Middle School) — “Shocked!”
• William (Liam) Goff (Rakow Middle School) — “Ceramic Fairy House”
• Isabella Hettler (Rakow Middle School) — “Snake Juice” and “Artist At Work”
• Brynn Krantz (Rakow Middle School) — “Mushroom Hat”
• Abrielle Torres (Cain Middle School) — “Empty”

In addition to these medalists, 70 students from Rockwall ISD earned a Rating 4 (Superior), highlighting the strength and dedication of the district’s visual arts programs. These students invested countless hours in planning and crafting their artwork, as well as preparing for the professional interview portion of the event.

Rockwall ISD extends its gratitude to the dedicated art teachers who have supported these young artists in their creative endeavors. The success of these students underscores the importance of art education in fostering creativity and excellence within the community.

About Junior VASE

The TAEA Junior Visual Art Scholastic Event (VASE) is designed to recognize exemplary student achievement in the visual arts. Its mission is to provide a platform for student artists to receive professional feedback and celebrate the importance of art education in Texas schools.

Original reporting: Blue Ribbon News (Rockwall) — read the source article.