After 1,800 pieces of artwork from all over the region were submitted to the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) held here on Feb. 13, seven students from the school advanced to the state level.

“We only take about 10 percent of the submissions in each division (grade level) (which) move onto the state level,” teacher Evanne Nasypany said.

Over 60 submissions were entered by art teachers Dallas Williams, Macka Jones, Amy Lamar and Nasypany’s classes.

“The competition is so intense,” sophomore Naomi Lucas said. “I had to start my piece over again just a week before VASE. I was so nervous.”

The state level of competition will be held on April 22- 23, in San Antonio.

“I was really surprised,” sophomore Anthony Russo said. “I didn’t think it’d get that far.”

Junior Nayelli Calderon said she was relieved she didn’t make it to state.

“I didn’t want to deal with that stress,” she said.

Nasypany said the competition was important.

“It creates a sense of pride for the students and pushes them outside their comfort zone,” she said. “It’s great to build their portfolio, especially if they want to do something with art in the future.”

The competition left Russo with more than just a medal.

“I was really proud of myself,” he said. “I can’t wait to go to San Antonio.”