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EMS ISD Students Earn Prestigious Spot in Youth Art Month Exhibition

EMS ISD Students Shine in Statewide Art Exhibition 
  
The Visual Arts Department at Eagle Mountain-Saginaw Independent School District (EMS ISD) is making waves! For the first time in the district's history, EMS ISD is working toward becoming a TAEA District of Distinction—an exciting achievement that brings unparalleled opportunities for students and teachers alike. This goal not only highlights the excellence of the district's fine arts programs but also opens doors for students to share their creativity beyond the classroom and even beyond the district. 
  
A Prestigious Recognition: Youth Art Month 
As part of this effort, two incredibly talented students from EMS ISD have had their artwork selected to be displayed at the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin during Youth Art Month in March. This honor speaks volumes about the students' dedication and the hard work of their teachers. 
  
Meet the Artists

  • Arianna Fish: A 6th grader at Highland Middle School, Arianna's piece "Flowers" was created during her 5th grade year at Copper Creek Elementary under the guidance of art teacher Julie Staley. Arianna’s vibrant use of color and texture in this piece immediately caught the attention of the Youth Art Month Committee, making her one of the select few chosen for this prestigious exhibition. 
      
  • Caleb Herl: Caleb, a student at Eagle Mountain High School, is no stranger to artistic excellence. His artwork, titled "Autumn Gaze", was crafted under the mentorship of art teacher Paul Randall. Caleb's work, with its rich autumnal tones and captivating depth, truly exemplifies the talent that is fostered in the EMS ISD Visual Arts Program. 

Both Arianna and Caleb are part of an exciting new chapter for EMS ISD’s Visual Arts Department, as the district strives to earn the TAEA District of Distinction designation.

A District on the Rise 
Carla Hardy, the Fine Arts Director for EMS ISD, shared her thoughts on what this achievement means for the district: 
  
"The District of Distinction is a way to highlight what's happening in visual arts across the state of Texas," said Hardy. "It helps districts like ours connect with opportunities to showcase student talent outside of their immediate community. It's been a real push for us to step outside our comfort zones and create more opportunities for our students to shine." 
  
She continued, "This recognition not only allows us to celebrate students like Arianna and Caleb but also gives them the chance to have their work seen in a professional setting alongside their peers. It’s an incredible honor for them, their teachers, and the entire district." 
  
A Record of Achievement 
This year marks the first time EMS ISD has submitted artwork for the Youth Art Month exhibition, and the results are already astounding. Of the six students selected from across the district to participate, two of them—Arianna and Caleb—are now among the few whose work will be on display at the renowned Bullock Texas State History Museum. 
  
Their selection is not the only honor EMS ISD students have earned this year. Earlier in 2025, other students from the district had their work showcased at the Texas Art Educators Association convention, and more are expected to be celebrated in upcoming exhibitions. 
  
The Future Looks Bright 
The selection of Arianna and Caleb’s artwork for Youth Art Month is a shining example of the district’s commitment to nurturing student creativity and talent. With each milestone, EMS ISD’s Visual Arts Department is proving that its students and teachers are not only capable of achieving great things—they are redefining what’s possible in the world of art education. 
  
As the district continues to work toward becoming a TAEA District of Distinction, there’s no doubt that more students will have the opportunity to see their work displayed in galleries, museums, and beyond. This is just the beginning of a new era for EMS ISD, where the arts are celebrated, the students are recognized, and the future looks incredibly bright. 
  
Congratulations to Arianna, Caleb, and their teachers on this well-deserved recognition! 
  
Want to stay updated on EMS ISD’s journey to becoming a TAEA District of Distinction? Keep an eye out for more stories and upcoming art showcases in the district! 

HMS Student, Arianna Fish EMHS Student Caleb Herl