Holton-Arms Students Excel in the 2025 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

"Dollar Bill" by Sedona H. ’25 - Gold Key
National: American Visions Award

Founded in 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the nation’s most prestigious recognition program for teen artists and writers, offering opportunities for national recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships. In 2025, nearly 110,000 students across the United States and Canada submitted over 310,000 original works in 28 categories spanning visual art and writing. Judges looked for work that pushed boundaries, challenged assumptions, and reflected the program’s core values: originality, technical skill, and a distinct personal voice or vision.

Among the exceptional pool of talent, Holton-Arms students stood out, earning 128 awards across the disciplines of Photography, Painting and Drawing, Ceramics, and Writing, with additional entries in Fashion and Mixed Media.

Arts Awards

The fine arts program at Holton teaches students art as a visual language and combines technical training with the development of imagination and personal expression.

According to Kayin B. ’25, Gold Key winner for her ceramic work titled “Ominira” (Freedom), “The studio has become more than a classroom. It’s become a home. It’s where we find balance when the rest of the world feels overwhelming. The soft paddling of clay, the warm lights, the clay under our nails, and the random, hilarious conversations create a welcoming community.”

Sophia G. ’27, Gold Key winner for her work titled “Caught Red-Handed,” says of her art studies, "The Painting and Drawing class at Holton has provided a meaningful space for me to channel my creativity and bring my ideas to life. Winning multiple Scholastic Awards was a gratifying experience that made me feel appreciated for my work and has encouraged me to continue growing as an artist."

Nell C. ’27, Silver Key winner for her work “Muses Find Me by Moonlight,” explains, "My ceramics work is usually very personal; it's a reflection of my experiences, pain, and passion. Submitting to Scholastic and receiving recognition made me feel seen and validated, knowing that there is someone else appreciating my story through my artwork."

Arts Awards Highlights:

• 36 Gold Key Awards (Gold Key recipients advance to national adjudication)
• 28 Silver Key Awards 
• 63 Honorable Mentions

At the National Level:

• Gold Key winner Cecilia C. ’27 won a Silver Key
• Gold Key winner Sedona H. ’25 won a prestigious "American Visions Award" for her ceramic work titled Dollar Bill

Writing Awards

The writing curriculum at Holton empowers students to express their ideas clearly and creatively, helping them develop a strong sense of voice and self-assurance.

At the D.C. area Regional Level:

• 10 Honorable Mention
• 10 Silver Medals
• 8 Gold Medals

At the National Level:

• Nell C. ’27 received a Gold Medal for her piece "Final Exam" and was one of just ten students nationwide to be honored with the New York Life Award, which recognizes works that thoughtfully explore themes of personal loss and grief.
• Cindy M. ’27: 2 Gold and 1 Silver
• Alex C. ’26: 2 Silver

A double recipient in art and writing, Nell C. ’27, adds, “For me, writing is a deeply personal process. When I share my work, I feel vulnerable, as if I’m exposing a part of my inner world. But there’s beauty in that vulnerability–especially when it’s met with recognition. In those moments, I know the reader sees the whole of who I am. I don’t need to explain; the words speak for themselves.”

Alex C. ’26, says of her writing, “Both of my pieces were really fun to write, and I enjoyed having a creative outlet during all the stress of school. Writing enables me to channel my creative ideas into a piece that reflects my individuality and imagination.”

We are incredibly proud of all our students for their creativity, hard work, and willingness to share their unique voices with the world. Congratulations to each of you on this remarkable achievement!