Lewis-Palmer Middle School

As the end of the school year approaches, D38 took time to recognize and celebrate the artistic talents of our students.

The annual districtwide art awards were hosted on April 15, following the annual art show that fills the Bauman Learning Center with students' art for several days.

The art awards recognized first, second, and third-place winners from each grade level, as well as two Best of Show winners at the elementary level, and one at the secondary level. Each student received a certificate, an art gift bag with an assortment of supplies, a special sticker designed by a Palmer Ridge art student, a custom cookie, and an art show ribbon.

The art show and art awards are a collaborative effort among all D38 art teachers, but for the past two years now, Palmer Lake Elementary Art Teacher, Amanda Staman has taken on the role of lead organizer. The events have benefited greatly from having Ms. Staman at the helm, as she has a clear passion for the arts and her students, and has given a lot of her time and effort to celebrate their successes.

The award show was emceed by D38 Director of Communications, Amy Matisek. Following a brief introduction, Matisek recognized the event's sponsors and then the art teachers that helped inspire the students being recognized.

Art Teachers (not all pictured)

Lewis Palmer High School: Brian Barkey and David Moore

Palmer Ridge High School: Mallory Bonsall and Perri Davis

Lewis Palmer Middle School: Jacki Cirbo

Bear Creek Elementary: Diana Harris and Jeanette Laudner

Kilmer Elementary: Stacy Grossman

Lewis-Palmer Elementary: Mary Temple

Prairie Winds Elementary: Jennifer Rowedder

Palmer Lake Elementary: Amanda Staman

Monument Academy West: Deborah Hulting

Monument Academy East: Brooke Gaughan

Homeschool Enrichment Academy: Melody DeFillipo

Following the introduction and recognition of art teachers, Staman addressed the large crowd in attendance. She spoke about her love of the arts and the importance of them to our students.

After Staman addressed the audience, Superintendent Amber Whetstine also spoke.

"In Lewis-Palmer School District, we believe that the arts are an essential piece to a well-rounded education. This annual art show and awards program is an excellent example of that belief that brings everyone together in our community," Whetstine said.

"I would like to thank both our families and art teachers. We appreciate how you all encourage and nurture our student-artists, and we know the skills and creativity they develop will serve them in countless ways in the future," Whetstine added.

At the elementary level, the 2-D Best of Show winner was Jaxon Mirenda from Bear Creek Elementary. The 3-D Best of Show elementary winner was Tov Troyer from Palmer Lake Elementary.

At the secondary level, the Best of Show winner was Everleigh Larsen from Palmer Ridge High School.

A complete list of winners can be found below.

Kindergarten

Award winners pictured from Kindergarten to Twelfth Grade: