The holiday spirit has officially swept through Comal Independent School District with the announcement of three winners from its first Christmas Card Contest—a festive initiative that saw elementary, middle, and high school students bring their jolliest designs to the table. According to FOX San Antonio, the contest, which embraced the district's new motto "Growing Greatness," featured a cluster of winter-themed artwork from young, up-and-coming artists.
Among the frosty depictions of snowmen and Christmas trees, sixth-grader Adele Earnest of Church Hill Middle School nabbed the coveted spot on the contest's cover with her design. Her creation, chosen from over 100 entries, adorns the front of the district's 2023 Christmas card, which, according to Herald-Zeitung News, was described as showcasing two snowmen, a Christmas tree, and an assortment of snowflakes.
The awards didn't stop at the middle school level. Fourth-grader Ella Zapata from Goodwin Frazier Elementary School and sophomore Gabriella Viccellio from Davenport High School were also lauded for their festive contributions. On the back of the cards, the designs of these budding artists deliver a touch of holiday cheer to every recipient. Ella's portrayal of a holly-jolly Christmas scene and Gabriella's take on a garland-adorned front door made for a showcase of young talent across all school levels.
As for rewards, the district ensured the winners' pockets—and spirits—were a little fuller this season. Apart from having their designs sent out to all CISD employees, each student received copies of the card with their design, a certificate, and a Target gift card. To top it off, several passes to Natural Bridge Caverns Discovery Tour were also part of the haul, as per Herald-Zeitung News. This celebration of artistic expression, at a time when the arts often play second fiddle to academia, could be seen as a welcome nod to the enduring spirit of creativity and festivity in educational spheres.
