Three Carter students earned awards and distinctions as part of the 2022 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

Mariana Castillo is being recognized by the Region-at-Large program of the 2021 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, presented by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, for her submission titled “The “Best” Of Both Worlds “ in the category of Journalism and Caasi Vasquez for her photography submission “Reality Shift.”

            Castillo and Vasquez earned a Gold Key award that automatically advances to the national level competition, judged in New York. The national medalist will be announced on March 23.

            A Gold Key award has been evaluated for originality, technical skill, and the emergence of personal vision or voice. According to the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards website, they have recognized and celebrated artists since 1923.

            Additionally, Jesus Menchaca and Jacqueline Gonzalez have earned a Silver Key Award in writing and Photography.

As mentors and teachers, these students’ efforts have been supported by Ms. Thania Robles, Ms. Nilda Valle, and Mr. Iván Silva, staff members at Jimmy Carter Early College High School. The goal at Carter is to develop our student’s abilities both in and outside of the classroom so that they can be the next generation of leaders and mentors.

“The Alliance’s mission is to identify students with exceptional artistic and literary talent and present their remarkable work to the world through the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The Awards give students opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships,” per the organization’s mission.

Last year about 230,000 students made submissions in 28 different categories of art and writing.

Ivan Silva serves as the advisor for RedGold News Student Publications, where he mentors student journalists and oversees all aspects of the publication. In addition to his work with RGN, Silva teaches Dual Enrollment courses in Speech Communication and Interpersonal Communication, helping students bridge the gap between high school and college-level academics.

He is also an adjunct instructor at South Texas College (STC), where he brings his expertise in communication studies into higher education classrooms. On campus, Silva is actively involved as the UIL Coordinator and UIL Journalism Coach, guiding students to success in academic competitions at the district, regional, and state levels.

Through his combined roles as Journalism Advisor, RGN Advisor, and educator, Silva is dedicated to fostering student voice, leadership, and excellence in communication, both in print and beyond.